Veterinarians

The professional and courteous staff at Southern Veterinary Clinic seeks to provide the best possible medical care, surgical care, and dental care for their highly-valued patients. From large animals to small, we are committed to promoting responsible pet ownership, preventative health care and health-related educational opportunities for our clients.

Kirby "Dean" Stringfellow, DVM, Veterinarian

Dr. Kirby "Dean" Stringfellow has been a cherished part of our veterinary team since 2014, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to each animal he cares for. With a special focus on Internal Medicine and Preventative Care, Dr. Stringfellow strives to provide comprehensive, compassionate treatment for his patients, helping to improve their health and well-being over the long term. He finds his role most fulfilling when he can guide an animal through a challenging health situation to a successful outcome, making a tangible difference in both the pet’s and owner’s lives. His commitment to excellence in veterinary care is evident, and he stays actively involved in the American Veterinary Medical Association, Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association, and Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association.

Dr. Stringfellow’s path to veterinary medicine began on his family’s dairy farm, where he grew up surrounded by animals in need of consistent care. Witnessing the essential role veterinarians played in maintaining the health of the farm’s animals inspired him to pursue this career. He went on to attend Mississippi State University, completing his undergraduate degree in 1991 and earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1995. With decades of experience since, Dr. Stringfellow continues to be driven by the values he learned in his youth: dedication, resilience, and a passion for helping animals.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Stringfellow finds joy in working on his property and spending time outdoors. He loves tractor work, managing his land, and keeping his lawn in top condition—a hobby that gives him a sense of accomplishment and connection with the land. He is also deeply devoted to his family, sharing his life with his wife, Patti, who is a business manager, and their four children. At home, the Stringfellow family is joined by their five beloved dogs, who bring them endless joy and companionship.

For Dr. Stringfellow, working at our clinic offers the perfect blend of professional satisfaction and community connection. He deeply appreciates the trust clients place in him and values the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of both animals and their families.

Matthew K. Smith, Veterinarian

Dr. Matthew K. Smith is a dedicated veterinarian at Southern Veterinary Clinic, where he finds immense satisfaction in making a difference in the lives of both his patients and their owners. For Dr. Smith, there’s nothing more rewarding than providing a successful diagnosis or treatment plan that improves a pet’s quality of life—and sharing the good news with pet owners. His passion for veterinary medicine began in his childhood, growing up in a clinic where his father’s work ethic and dedication inspired him to pursue the same path.

Dr. Smith earned his undergraduate degree in Animal Science from Mississippi State University and graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2010. Throughout his career, he has stayed committed to learning and improving, always aiming to provide the best possible care for his patients. At home, Dr. Smith enjoys a lively family life with his wife, Lacy, a stay-at-home mom, and their three children, Dani, Karlee, and Aubrie. Together, they care for a variety of animals, including dogs, horses, cats, goats, and cows.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Smith enjoys spending time at barrel races with his wife and daughter, as well as horse racing. His compassionate care, dedication, and love for animals make him an invaluable part of the Southern Veterinary Clinic team.

Amanda Swaim, DVM, Associate Veterinarian

Dr. Amanda Swaim joined our team as a relief veterinarian in April 2024 and transitioned to a full-time associate veterinarian in September 2024. With professional interests in internal and emergency medicine for small animals, Dr. Swaim is committed to delivering the highest quality of care to enhance pets’ quality of life and ensure their longevity as cherished family members. She is a proud member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association, and Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association.

Dr. Swaim graduated magna cum laude from Southeastern Louisiana University in 2008, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Organismal and Integrative Biology. She was also an active member of the Phi Kappa Phi and Tri Beta Honor Societies. She went on to attend Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 2016.

Originally from Hammond, Louisiana, Dr. Swaim’s lifelong love for animals and dedication to medicine inspired her veterinary career. Early on, she volunteered and worked at a small animal practice near Hammond, where she confirmed that a career in veterinary medicine would bring her daily fulfillment.

Outside of work, Dr. Swaim shares her life with her three Boxers—Breaux, Belle, and Jax. She enjoys traveling with her husband, spending time with her family, and cheering on the LSU women's basketball team. Dr. Swaim is also an active member of St. Margaret’s Catholic Church and the Catholic Daughters of America.