Keith Stewart
In Town: Keith Stewart is the store manager at Southeast Animal Health and Hardware, located in Wister, Okla. Southeast Animal Health and Hardware is owned by veterinarian Robert Fields, who also runs Fields Vet Clinic. “The store gives his clients easier access to products,” said Keith. “They can come here and find things needed to treat their animals.” In addition to managing the store, Keith pastors the First Baptist Church of Wister.
In the Country: Keith grew up in Fort Smith, Ark., and moved to Oklahoma three years ago. He runs a small herd of crossbreed beef cattle on a 75-acre spread nearby.
What’s unique about your business?
While there are hardware stores, animal supply stores and veterinarian clinics, there are not many places with all three rolled into one. Animal health is a priority for the store, but the business also provides materials that all ranchers and farmers depend upon daily. “In addition to over-the-counter medicine for livestock, they can come in and get stuff for their plumbing, or dog food and cat food, or tools,” said Keith. “This store allows them to get a lot of the stuff they need in the same place.” Customers can also pick up a cold soft drink or a box of rifle ammo if they want.
How does your work at the store complement your work at the farm?
Working at Southeast Animal Health and Hardware helps him with is own cattle operation, Keith says. “I get to learn from a vet, who also raises Maine-Anjou and Shorthorn cattle,” said Keith. I have access to animal supplies and feeds. The store also helps me to be in touch with a lot of experienced farmers.”
By OFN Staff
