After three decades of keeping the Janesville community’s pets healthy and full of life, a local fixture in veterinary medicine is hanging up his stethoscope. Dr. Troy Summers—the founder and guiding heart of Summers Ridge Veterinary Clinic—officially entered retirement on April 15th, leaving behind a profound legacy of compassion and care.
What many clients know as Summers Ridge today actually began its journey as South Central Vets. Under Dr. Summers’ leadership, the practice evolved into the modern facility on East 1st Street, expanding its reach and its technology to meet the growing needs of Janesville and the surrounding areas.
Dr. Summers’ path to the clinic was not always a straight line. He initially attended Southern Illinois University as a forestry major with dreams of becoming a forest ranger. However, a pivotal moment involving a family pet changed the course of his life, “A family dog got seriously injured and the treatment was hours long…that’s what motivated me to become more involved in caring for animals.”
He followed that new calling to the University of Illinois Department of Veterinary Medicine, where he earned his Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine in 1983 and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1985. Since then, he has practiced in Janesville for over 30 years, with the last two decades focused specifically on small animal medicine and surgery.
The retirement celebration on April 11 witnessed a massive turnout as customers, friends, and longtime Janesvillians gathered to share memories and offer tokens of appreciation. A nearby basket was filled with thoughtful cards and small gifts, a testament to the thousands of surgeries performed and the generations of families who have placed their trust in Dr. Summers’ hands. “Spending several decades here in Janesville…you start to build relationships over the years and become part of a larger community,” said Dr. Summers. “It’s been an honor to care for these animals and for their owners to put their faith and trust in us here at Summers Ridge.”
The impact of his career extends beyond the exam room. Dr. Summers has been a mentor and guide to his staff, many of whom credit him with their professional and personal growth. “I couldn’t ask for a better staff at Summers Ridge,” he said. “It’s a hard decision to step away, but this place and the animals here are in great hands.”
While he is stepping away from the surgical table, Dr. Summers isn’t going far. He and his wife, Julie, plan to stay in the Janesville area. His retirement plans include traveling and “vacations galore” as well as plenty of time to indulge in his two favorite hobbies: golfing and fishing.
As the clinic prepares for life after its namesake founder, clients are encouraged to stop by to say their final farewells and meet the talented team of doctors who will carry on the Summers Ridge legacy of compassion and excellence.
