Dr. Julia Hix Dean was born and raised in Gibsonville, North Carolina. She graduated from the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1987 and, that same year, married her husband and professional partner, Dr. Kent Dean.

Together, Drs. Julia and Kent Dean established Southern Oaks Animal Hospital in 1987, where they have spent decades providing compassionate veterinary care to pets and their families. Dr. Hix’s primary professional interests include diagnostic ultrasound and internal medicine. Dr. Hix and her husband are proud parents of two grown children, Nick and Kentley. Continuing the family’s commitment to veterinary medicine, Kentley joined the practice in 2017.

Outside of the hospital, Dr. Hix enjoys spending time with her family and beloved pets, including Pippa, a Boxer, and Henlee, a Himalayan cat. Her interests include spending time on the family farm, relaxing at the beach, wildlife and bird photography, and traveling. She especially appreciates opportunities to connect with nature and capture its beauty through her camera lens.

For nearly four decades, Dr. Hix has remained dedicated to serving her community, combining medical expertise, compassion, and a lifelong love of animals in her veterinary practice.