Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Veterinarian in Pocatello, Idaho
Hawthorne Animal Hospital has been a trusted provider of veterinary care since 1964, serving the Pocatello and American Falls communities with dedication and expertise. Our full-service hospital offers comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care for both small and large animals, including emergency services for urgent situations. With decades of combined experience, our team of skilled veterinarians and support staff prioritizes compassionate care, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and treatment methods to ensure the best outcomes for pets and farm animals. We maintain a family-friendly environment designed to keep animals calm and comfortable during visits, reflecting our commitment to both patient well-being and client satisfaction. As a locally owned practice, we focus on building long-term relationships with pet owners through personalized attention and transparent communication.Our services span preventative care, therapeutic laser treatments, reproductive services, and specialized large animal care, addressing diverse veterinary needs under one roof. We emphasize preventive health strategies, including tailored vaccination plans and dental care, to promote long-term wellness. The hospital's leadership combines academic excellence with practical experience, including advanced training in microbiology and equine reproduction. Our mission remains unchanged since founding: to provide exceptional veterinary care while maintaining the trust and confidence of the communities we serve.
Services
Preventative Care
Dentistry
Surgery
Diagnostic Testing
Therapeutic Laser
Microchipping
Large Animal Services
Reproduction
Lameness Exam
Horse Foaling
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- We offer over 50 years of continuous veterinary service to Southeastern Idaho
- Our hospital provides 24/7 emergency care for urgent animal health issues
- Veterinarians hold advanced degrees in specialized areas like equine reproduction
- We treat both small companion animals and large farm animals under one roof
- Family-friendly facility designed to reduce stress for pets during visits
What people say
Most talented surgeon in the West
Cares about all animals
Part of the family
Not about the money
All staff is awesome
Services
Preventative Care
Our preventative care programs focus on early disease detection and health maintenance through customized vaccination schedules, parasite control, and annual wellness exams. We develop tailored health plans for puppies, kittens, adult pets, and senior animals to ensure long-term wellness. Our team educates owners on nutrition, exercise, and home care practices that complement professional veterinary interventions.
Dentistry
Comprehensive dental services include professional teeth cleaning, polishing, extractions, and oral health assessments. We utilize modern dental equipment to address periodontal disease and maintain proper oral hygiene. Our approach combines routine maintenance with treatment of complex dental issues to prevent systemic health complications from oral infections.
Surgery
We perform routine and complex surgical procedures including spays/neuters, soft tissue surgeries, and orthopedic operations. Our surgical suite features advanced monitoring equipment to ensure patient safety during procedures. Post-operative care includes pain management and recovery monitoring to optimize healing outcomes for both small and large animals.
Diagnostic Testing
In-house laboratory capabilities enable rapid diagnostic testing including blood work, urinalysis, and microscopic evaluations. We utilize IDEXX equipment for accurate results that support timely treatment decisions. Diagnostic imaging services include digital radiography and endoscopic procedures to visualize internal structures and identify health concerns.
Large Animal Services
Our large animal practice includes reproductive services, lameness evaluations, and surgical treatments for horses and farm animals. We offer on-site breeding assistance, artificial insemination, and pregnancy monitoring. Mobile services are available for routine care and emergency situations involving large animals in their natural environment.
People
Dr. Lonna Gerstner
Veterinarian
Graduated from Colorado State Veterinary School in 1980 with advanced training in microbiology. Specializes in equine reproduction and small animal orthopedic surgery. Owns the practice since 1985, combining academic expertise with practical ranch experience from Wyoming upbringing.
Nadine Newbold
Office Manager
Has managed hospital operations since 1982 with extensive experience in client relations and small animal care. Oversees daily operations while maintaining personal connection with patients and pet owners. Balances work responsibilities with family life including three grandchildren.
Bart Anderson
Facility Manager
Manages both Pocatello and American Falls locations with 19 years of institutional knowledge. Combines maintenance expertise with large animal handling skills. Active outdoorsman who shares his passion for nature with three children through various equestrian and hunting activities.
Questions
What vaccinations does my pet need?
Vaccination requirements depend on species, age, and lifestyle. Our veterinarians create customized schedules to protect against common illnesses through core and non-core vaccines.
What should I do if my pet is sick after hours?
Call our emergency line (208-251-8549) for after-hours assistance. A veterinarian will provide guidance and determine if urgent care is needed.
How often should my horse's teeth be floated?
Most horses require dental floating every 6-12 months. Your veterinarian will recommend frequency based on individual dental health and chewing patterns.
How do I prevent my horse from getting colic?
Prevent colic through proper hydration, balanced diet, regular exercise, and scheduled veterinary check-ups. We recommend parasite control and dental maintenance.
What dental care does my pet need?
Regular brushing, dental-friendly treats, and professional cleanings maintain oral health. We provide personalized recommendations during wellness exams.
Do you care for large animals?
Yes, we offer comprehensive services for horses and farm animals including reproductive care, lameness exams, and surgical treatments.
Reviews (7)
Joziah Talbot
Jun 17, 2022
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They easily could have caused more problems to my puppy with their technique for X-rays! They refuse to look at the problem area (ankle) and they say things like "cancer" based on x-rays, they had trouble getting! My puppy also has underlying back issues in 2 places and I believe they may have injured another spot! Apparently; no vets can be trusted! Yes; she had a TCPLO and hasn't been able to walk due to her spine injuries! However; she recently tried and her ankle swelled!
Why wouldn't they even look at her ankle? Were they just in shock (never seen a TCPLO before)? Idk why it's so hard to find someone who can actually help an innocent beautiful puppy? Vets hurt her more than they help her!
Why wouldn't they even look at her ankle? Were they just in shock (never seen a TCPLO before)? Idk why it's so hard to find someone who can actually help an innocent beautiful puppy? Vets hurt her more than they help her!
Amber
Apr 06, 2022
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I absolutely love them. They've always took care of every animal I brought to them. Even helped me out with shaving my long haired cat. She's a handful, and doesn't let me do anything, but is an angle for them.
Bradley Owen
Apr 05, 2022
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If you don't care about your animals, this is the place for you. Pretty sure that old lady is losing her mind as well. What a terribly ran establishment. I'd go to Mountain View Veterinary clinic if you're going to a Vet office. At least they give a bleep and aren't ran like a circus with a nut at the head of it.
Hilary Gregson
Mar 17, 2022
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My dog had entropion surgery here. Trying to get the specifics of how to care for my dog after surgery was a joke! I spoke to the vet, vet tech, and front desk who gave me contradicting information(the dog needs to be seen in a few weeks, the dog doesn't need to be seen again, the stitches are dissolvable, the stitches aren't dissolvable, he can have pain meds, he can't have pain meds, he needs ointment for the wound he doesn't need ointment.) Even the paperwork and reciept had contradicting information!
I called to speak to the vet to get the correct answers. I followed the vets directions, cared for my dog, she said he didn't need to be seen again unless I had concerns. 3 weeks post surgery, I had concerns and brought my dog back to be checked. The same vet I spoke to questioned why I didn't bring my dog back for his 2 week post surgery check up---I was never told to do so! She was so rude! The front desk workers were apologizing for the vet, they even let me know they understood if we don't come back and set up the records transfer. Horrible experience! And the surgery was unsuccessful!
I called to speak to the vet to get the correct answers. I followed the vets directions, cared for my dog, she said he didn't need to be seen again unless I had concerns. 3 weeks post surgery, I had concerns and brought my dog back to be checked. The same vet I spoke to questioned why I didn't bring my dog back for his 2 week post surgery check up---I was never told to do so! She was so rude! The front desk workers were apologizing for the vet, they even let me know they understood if we don't come back and set up the records transfer. Horrible experience! And the surgery was unsuccessful!
Angie Clark Gallegos
Oct 27, 2021
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Dr. Gerstner came in on a Sunday evening to see my sons golden doodle Sonny who was close to death from what turned out to be parvo. He spent 5 nights at the hospital where he received the very best of care. Unfortunately he quietly passed away during his first night back home but we know that everything that could be done for him was and he was comfortable. Well always miss Sonny. When we get a new dog sometime in the future hell be seeing Dr. Gerstner for sure.
Chey Keller
Oct 21, 2021
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Workers were non responsive and disrespectful in my concerns about my dog. They also advised my family members that it would be appropriate to let my dog travel the 3 hour drive to their location in his condition instead of getting him emergency help. When we arrived, I basically got made fun of for freaking out about my dog's condition. They laughed at me saying that it was not a big deal, and made me feel silly for overreacting.
Their arrogance lead them to leave him under poor supervision and he passed away in their care at 3 years old. I am still in shock because of how I was made to believe that the surgery was so simple. I understand that accidents happen, but my experience at this vet could've been salvaged with just a little empathy for my situation. People come to your business for warmth and love in the hardest times, do better.
Their arrogance lead them to leave him under poor supervision and he passed away in their care at 3 years old. I am still in shock because of how I was made to believe that the surgery was so simple. I understand that accidents happen, but my experience at this vet could've been salvaged with just a little empathy for my situation. People come to your business for warmth and love in the hardest times, do better.
Val Traughber
Oct 04, 2021
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Professional vets and a fantastic staff. pricing is fair. I've had emergency visits, regular maintenance, surgeries, cancer treatment, all done here over the years and have always been satisfied that my animals recieve the best care.
