Growing up with what he calls, “a menagerie in my room,” Dr. Scott Barnard knew early on that he wanted to be a veterinarian. Fond of everything from pocket pets like ferrets, mice, rabbits, and hamsters, to cats and dogs, Dr. Barnard’s eagerness to gain hands-on experience led him to volunteer at his local Ohio humane society at the age of 12. Two years later they gave him his first real job, assisting veterinarians and shelter staff in caring for homeless animals, and he has been caring for four-legged patients ever since.
His desire to help animals was greatly intensified through his shelter experience. During the early days of Parvo, when there was little information available about how to treat and help infected animals, he witnessed the widespread devastation caused by the disease. “Twenty-five percent of the animals who came to the shelter were dying,” Dr. Barnard remembered. Watching the veterinary community rally together to save animals’ lives fueled his passion for becoming a veterinarian.
With only 25 veterinary colleges in the country at the time he was in school, it was easier to become a doctor than to become a veterinarian. Determined to learn as much as possible about animal care, Dr. Barnard studied everything from pediatrics and senior animal care to surgeries and acupuncture. “I believe that the more I learn, the more I can help my clients and patients,” he shared.
After more than 20 years’ practicing veterinary medicine, Dr. Barnard’s drive to stay on the cusp of care remains strong. His Dobson Ranch practice has expanded to include many alternative options like acupuncture, stem cell therapy, and cold laser therapy. Cold laser can be used for a variety of ailments including chronic pain, wounds, and muscle strains. “One of the most exciting developments has been with laser treatment,” he explained. “My own dog, Sid has experienced dramatic healing from a chronic licking ailment through cold laser therapy. I’ve seen amazing results.”
As a busy father of four—two grown sons and two teens with busy softball and baseball schedules—Dr. Barnard understands how demanding it can be to make time for veterinary appointments and good pet care. That’s why Dobson Ranch offers flexible appointment scheduling with appointments available every day of the week including Sunday. He tailors treatment and care options to each of his client’s needs, taking time to review the benefits and options of each recommended procedure or care regimen.
“My goal is to give my clients and their pets the best care possible, explain their options and treat their pet in the style that best suits their needs,” stated Dr. Barnard. “I want every person who visits us to leave with a better understanding of what is going on with their pet’s health and to feel like they have gained something truly valuable from their time here.”