8/2025: A letter to our clients
Caring for Pets, Honoring the Past, Excited for the Future
In 1999, Dr. David Elsom purchased Spearfish Animal Hospital, beginning a journey built on compassion, dedication, and the love of caring for animals and their families. For more than two decades, Dr. Elsom has poured his heart into this practice—serving as the only veterinarian on staff for nearly 80% of its history. His steady presence and genuine care have shaped the hospital into the trusted place it is today.
Now, in 2025, we are excited to share the next step in that story. Dr. Jackie Martin has purchased the practice and, with this new chapter, our clinic will be rebranded as Spearfish Veterinary Clinic. While the name is evolving, our mission of exceptional, compassionate care remains the same.
Originally from Minnesota, Dr. Jackie Martin earned her veterinary degree at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. She began her career practicing in Iowa before relocating to the Black Hills in 2021. Dr. Jackie brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the practice, with special interests in ultrasonography (including echocardiograms), acupuncture, general surgery, and caring for hobby farm animals. Her dedication to advancing veterinary medicine and building lasting relationships with clients makes her a wonderful fit for leading the next chapter of our clinic.
Our associate veterinarian, Dr. Melanie Garbel, helps us strive for more with her expertise and enthusiasm. She has a special passion for orthopedics, dermatology and dentistry, and is continually expanding her skills. Soon, she will also be offering an exciting new orthopedic therapy, adding even more depth and options to the quality of life care we can provide our patients.
Dr. Elsom isn’t going far—he will continue to practice part-time. Alongside him, Dr. Jackie Martin and Dr. Melanie Garbel are eager to grow with our clients, patients, and community.
To all of the wonderful families who have supported and trusted Dr. Elsom over the years: thank you. Your loyalty and kindness have made this practice what it is today, and we can’t wait to continue building on that foundation with you.
Here’s to the next chapter at Spearfish Veterinary Clinic—where the heart of our care will always remain the same.
Company Policies
- Payment is due in full at the time of service, for all clients.
- New clients may be subject to a non-refundable deposit to reserve their appointment at our discretion.
- Surgical and dental procedures may require a deposit that will go toward the final bill after services are rendered. PLEASE NOTE: Deposits are only refundable if the office is notified of cancelation at least 48 hours prior to appointment.
- For financial assistance we recommend looking into to Care Credit or visiting www.hoboshealingheart.org to learn about eligibility.
Welcome to Spearfish Veterinary Clinic
Formerly known as Spearfish Animal Hospital, we're dedicated to remain a solid community staple and provide the latest in ever-evolving exceptional services to your beloved pets. Take a look around and get to know us!