What does it really mean to give back? For some, it’s a donation. For others, it’s a commitment of time or talent. For Dr. Craig Buffington of Frisco, Texas, giving back is creatively and seamlessly integrated into his veterinary practice.

Stonebrook Family Pet Clinic was founded in 1997 by Dr. Buffington, known lovingly as Dr. B., with a vision of delivering compassionate, high-quality veterinary care to the Frisco community. What began as a small clinic rooted in strong client relationships and trusted care has grown into a local cornerstone over the years.

After a decade of dedication, his dream of building a state-of-the-art facility became a reality—a modern, welcoming space designed to offer pets and their families the very best veterinary experience.

But for Dr. B., growing Stonebrook was never just about size. Instead, it was about service.

“Our growth has always gone hand in hand with giving back,” Dr. Buffington said. “We launched a special giveback program within our boarding department. Through this initiative, a portion of proceeds is donated quarterly to animal-related nonprofits, rescue and advocacy organizations throughout Texas. It’s our way of ensuring that while we care for your pets, we’re also helping those in need or those still waiting for homes of their own.”

Among the organizations supported by Stonebrook’s giveback program is the Texas Veterinary Medical Foundation (TVMF), a nonprofit that resonates deeply with Dr. Buffington’s values. As the charitable arm of the veterinary profession in Texas, TVMF works to expand access to care for pets and their families, a mission Stonebrook is proud to support.

“We want our dollars to go to an organization where they would count most,” Dr. Buffington said. “We know all of the different ways TVMF serves Texas families and pets in need and want to contribute to its causes.”

TVMF offers a variety of veterinary community-focused initiatives, including:

• Veterinary student support
• LEAP (providing care for the pets of homebound seniors)
• TexVetPets (client education resources)
• Rusk Veterinary Assistance Grants (financial aid for pet owners)
• Disaster relief

Currently, Stonebrook’s charitable contributions are directed toward the Rusk Veterinary Assistance Grants program. These one-time grants are available through TVMA member clinics to help cover urgent veterinary costs for pet owners facing financial hardship. The goal is simple but powerful—to preserve the human-animal bond, prevent unnecessary surrender or euthanasia and deliver life-saving care when it’s needed most.

“Supporting TVMF is a wise investment,” Dr. Buffington said. “Your time and money will be used in a responsible way to help families and animals that need them the most.”

Dr. Buffington’s commitment to animals runs deep. His interest in veterinary medicine began in high school but was sparked much earlier, during a childhood spent rescuing stray dogs and cats and caring for all kinds of creatures, from rabbits and turtles to birds, fish and even snakes. Working in veterinary clinics throughout his youth only strengthened his resolve to pursue a career in animal care.

Today, nearly 30 years into his practice, Dr. Buffington remains deeply engaged with every aspect of the profession. He especially enjoys helping families, strengthening the bond between humans and their pets and mentoring future veterinary professionals by welcoming high school and college interns as well as veterinary students into his clinic.

At the heart of Stonebrook Family Pet Clinic is a quote that hangs in the waiting room and is a simple reminder of the clinic’s values: “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” —Anatole France

From its founding to today, Stonebrook continues to stand for more than just veterinary care. It’s a place where compassion, service and community come together for the love of animals and the people who care for them.

Thank you, Dr. Buffington and staff members at Stonebrook Family Pet Clinic, for your commitment to philanthropy and giving back to TVMF, strengthening the charitable arm of the veterinary profession.

If you are interested in finding a creative way to donate to the Foundation through your practice or as an individual, please reach out to TVMF Director of Development and External Relations Casey McBee at cmcbee@tvma.org or 512-452-4224.