New, larger location benefits Liberty Lake Veterinary Center

Owners of a longtime East Valley small-animal hospital have transitioned into their new long-awaited and specially equipped facility.

And with a move across the Spokane River to Liberty Lake last year came a new name and the addition of a third doctor.

“We’re still settling in,” said Dr. Julie Clark, who co-owns the new Liberty Lake Veterinary Center with her husband, Darryl.

Both agree response to their move has been supportive, and the increased visibility may account for a few new customers.

The couple first opened Harvard Gentle Care Animal Hospital in Otis Orchards about 11 years ago, and Clark and Dr. Nissa Gese have cared for thousands of cats, dogs and other small animals.

Within a few years of opening the first hospital, the Clarks purchased the Liberty Lake property with hopes to someday build their own clinic. In the meantime, the couple did open the Crazy Beagle Coffee Company with a drive-through that now stands just north of the new vet center.

The move to the 4,800-square-foot building was mostly completed last July, although some services, such as boarding, are still offered at the Otis Orchard location. Boarding is also available at the Liberty Lake facility.

Clients to the new locale will notice a spacious entrance and waiting area, which the Clarks said was important for them to help create a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere for clients and staff. The new facility has about 1,300 square feet more than the previous location and is equipped with four patient rooms, a special drainage system, a larger surgical area, an upgraded X-ray machine and new surgical equipment. As well, the center has been equipped with insulated doors, which the owners say makes a noticeable difference.

Along with the relocation came the addition of a new veterinarian, . Doug Mohney, who most recently worked in Post Falls, and has a special interest in orthopedics.

The Clarks hope soon to add additional services such as dog training and animal grooming, and expand services to meet client needs remains on the agenda.

“Eventually, what we’re trying to do … is become a business for pets where people can come in and get it all done – to cover all the basics because we do get a lot of questions,” said Darryl Clark of future plans to grow the veterinary center.