The 5 Best Veterinarians

Caring for animals requires a combination of medical knowledge, compassion and an understanding of the needs of both pets and their owners. In the Yampa Valley, veterinarians treat everything from household companions to horses and livestock, providing preventive care, diagnostics and treatment when health concerns arise. The Best of the Boat 2026 honors veterinary professionals whose work supports animal health and well-being throughout the region.

Dr. Lee Meyring || Steamboat Veterinary Hospital

Raised in the Yampa Valley, Dr. Lee Meyring brings a background in the region's agricultural community to his work as a veterinarian and partner at Steamboat Veterinary Hospital. His practice includes equine medicine, livestock health and reproductive services, along with general medical care for dogs and cats. Meyring provides routine examinations, surgical treatment, emergency services and field calls to ranches throughout Routt County.

Dr. Chris Schwarz || Pet Kare Clinic

Dr. Chris Schwarz provides veterinary care for dogs and cats at Pet Kare Clinic in Steamboat Springs. His services include preventive medicine, diagnostic evaluations, dental procedures and soft tissue surgery. Schwarz emphasizes individualized wellness planning, working with pet owners to address routine health needs, chronic conditions and the changing medical requirements of senior animals.

Dr. Michael Gotchey || Steamboat Veterinary Hospital

With decades of experience serving the Yampa Valley, Dr. Michael Gotchey is a veterinarian and partner at Steamboat Veterinary Hospital. His work spans small animal medicine, orthopedic care, equine lameness evaluations and general surgery for pets and livestock. Gotchey also contributes to agricultural and rodeo-related veterinary care, along with emergency services for animals throughout Northwest Colorado.

Dr. Dayna Baillo || Mountain Peaks Veterinary Clinic

Dr. Dayna Baillo is the founder and lead veterinarian at Mountain Peaks Veterinary Clinic, where she provides medical care for dogs and cats. Her services include wellness examinations, vaccinations, surgery, dental procedures and digital diagnostic imaging. Baillo also incorporates integrative veterinary options and pain management strategies, emphasizing treatment plans tailored to each animal's health needs.

Dr. Reese Odenwelder || Ski Town Animal Hospital

Dr. Reese Odenwelder cares for companion animals at Ski Town Animal Hospital in Steamboat Springs. Her veterinary services include preventive wellness examinations, emergency medical support, soft tissue surgery and diagnostic ultrasound. Odenwelder emphasizes clear communication with pet owners and low-stress animal handling techniques while addressing a range of small animal health concerns.

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