In the more than 50 years that Dr. Richard Cook has been at Bel Air Veterinary Hospital, he’s seen Harford County’s animal care needs evolve. The expansion of the equestrian community and 4-H organization has meant changing large-animal care needs, and the growth of the suburbs has increased the demand for home pet care.
But in that time, Cook and his team have maintained a steady viewpoint: They don’t just care for the animals, they also educate and involve the owners in that care.
“Since the beginning, it’s been our philosophy to include the pet owner in the treatment plan,” says office manager Jeanne Schmidt. “Whether well or sick, they’re always involved in the care of their pets.”
Explains Dr. Cook: “We have six veterinarians, and they all have the same attitude in working with the clients and animals.”
Plus, Cook and his team share a wholehearted love for animals. “I just like the animals,” he says. “And the people!”