Veterinary Associates of Cape Cod

For more than five decades, Veterinary Associates of Cape Cod has been dedicated to delivering forward-thinking, relationship-driven veterinary care to the pets and families of Yarmouth and the surrounding Cape Cod communities. As a locally owned and operated practice, we’re more than a veterinary hospital — we’re your neighbors and partners in your pet’s lifelong health. Every visit is rooted in compassion, communication, and a whole-pet approach that honors the bond you share with your companion. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan focused on prevention, wellness, and the comfort your pet deserves

For more than six decades, the roots of Veterinary Associates of Cape Cod have been deeply woven into the fabric of our community, grounded in relationships, service, and a steadfast commitment to compassionate veterinary care. 1962: Our story begins in 1962, when Dr. Arthur Bernstein opened his veterinary practice on Route 28 in Yarmouth. At the time, Cape Cod was still largely rural, and Dr. Bernstein was only the second veterinarian to open a practice in the area. Known for his dedication to both animals and the people who loved them, Dr. Bernstein built a reputation for trusted, hands-on care. Dr. Bernstein even served as President John F. Kennedy’s veterinarian, a remarkable chapter in our early history. That same spirit of dedication was reflected in the people who helped build the practice from the ground up. In the early years, Dr. Bernstein hired Shirley, who joined the team at just 19 years old as a receptionist. In 2026, Shirley will celebrate an extraordinary 60 years with VACC, a testament to the longevity, loyalty, and family culture that have always defined our hospital. 1971: In 1971, Dr. Robert Labdon opened his own veterinary practice on Cape Cod, bringing with him a shared belief in relationship-driven care, medical excellence, and community responsibility. In 1975, the two practices officially merged their staff and operations, forming Veterinary Associates of Cape Cod. This union united two visionary approaches into one collaborative hospital, committed to raising the standard of care for the region. From the beginning, Dr. Labdon was more than a skilled clinician; he was a leader who believed in building lifelong relationships with pets and their families while continually advancing veterinary medicine on Cape Cod. That philosophy became the foundation of what “trusted local care” means at Veterinary Associates of Cape Cod. 1992: In 1992, that commitment to service extended beyond our shores when Veterinary Associates of Cape Cod became a founding participant in Project Samaná, a veterinary relief mission in the Dominican Republic. Since then, our team has taken part in more than 40 trips, providing medical care, supplies, and performing over 200 surgeries per trip in underserved communities. Project Samaná is an enduring expression of our belief that veterinary medicine carries a responsibility to give back. 2005: In 2005, Dr. Tom Burns stepped into the role of hospital director, carrying forward the values established by Drs. Bernstein and Labdon while guiding Veterinary Associates of Cape Cod into a new era. Under his leadership, the hospital expanded services, introduced advanced techniques such as laparoscopic spays, and embraced modern technology—all while preserving the warmth, trust, and personal connection that have always defined our care. Today: Now, as we proudly celebrate 50 years as Veterinary Associates of Cape Cod, we reflect on a legacy built by visionary veterinarians, devoted team members, and generations of pet families who have placed their trust in us. Anchored in our past and guided by our values, we look ahead with excitement, purpose, and a continued commitment to the community we serve

Mission — Our commitment to our community as a locally owned veterinary practice is unwavering. I stand by the mantra of “I’m trying… you’re trying” when it comes to the lifelong, multi-generational relationships we have established with our patients and their families. Our promise to you is that we will consistently deliver the same level of dedicated and compassionate veterinary care that we’d expect for our own pet companions. In return, we ask that you join us on this journey to work together to develop the best plan for you and your family. We will provide you with all the tools and resources so you are informed every step of the way. -Dr. Tom Burns, DVM, Hospital Director