Dr. Hinko is a graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He practiced first in Cleveland, Ohio, before moving to the suburbs of Chicago, where he was the main surgeon in a multi-doctor small animal practice. While there, he had the opportunity to participate in writing over 13 published articles over the course of approximately 8 years. In 1982, he received the Practitioner Research Award given annually by the American Veterinary Medical Association. (The award is given to a veterinarian who, while engaged in full-time private practice, has made achievements in veterinary medical research.)
Following this event, Dr. Hinko decided to change direction and become a business owner. In late December 1982, the Hinko family moved to Santa Fe, NM, and into 600 sq. ft. “apartment” in what was then the back half of the Animal Clinic. (Quite a change from their 4-bedroom home in Illinois!) After 5 years of living and working in the clinic, the Hinkos were able to move into a new home in La Tierra, northwest of Santa Fe, and the clinic building was remodeled to dedicate all of the available space to the practice. (Further remodeling was done about 10 years later.)
Dr. Hinko shares his home with Toby, a Bull Terrier.
Dr Hinko’s daughter, MJ, handles the books, general paperwork, client reminders, and social media for the clinic, and his son-in-law, Kristion, works as the Doc’s personal assistant and general handyman for both the house and clinic.