Riversbend Animal Hospital

Riversbend Animal Hospital is a family-owned and operated veterinary practice that has proudly served Big Rapids and its surrounding communities since 1978. Our veterinarians and veterinary care team strive to create personalized experiences in a warm, friendly environment where your pet always comes first

1978: Riversbend Animal Hospital was founded by Dr. Edward Lepley in Rogers Heights. 1980-1981: Dr. James Krellwitz & Dr. James Scott graduated from Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and joined Dr. Lepley. 1990’s-2000’s: Two of Dr. Scott’s seven children, Ruth and James (Jimmy), joined as assistants; their brother Joseph followed. 2008: Dr. Krellwitz retired and Dr. Scott became sole owner. 2014: Dr. Scott pursued AAHA accreditation. 2016: Business outgrew original space; kept Rogers Heights as Riversbend Boarding and Grooming and purchased a building for Riversbend Animal Hospital. Ruth graduated from MSU with DVM, completed small animal surgery residency at University of Minnesota, returned to provide specialty surgical services. Jimmy became Certified Veterinary Practice Manager. 2019: Dr. Ruth took over as sole owner. 2020: Closed Riversbend Boarding and Grooming. 2022: Dr. Ruth became a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (Small Animal). Joseph rejoined after graduating from MSU with DVM, focuses on internal medicine

Mission — We strive to have a friendly and caring environment for our team members and clients