The Santa Ynez Pet Hospital opened its doors on June 28, 1983. The 4,000 square foot building has an unusual feature in that the walls are of a rammed earth design, that are made of adobe from the lot itself. Developed by a childhood friend, David Easton, the 11- inch thick walls were made by literally compacting the earth between plywood frames. There are 42 skylights in the middle of the building affording a passive solar heating system as well as the advantage of ambient lighting. Material made from sails is used in a curtain type fashion below the skylights. In the winter, the sails are open during the day to allow the heat of the sun to penetrate the flooring and walls. The sails are drawn closed at night to retain the heat. Conventional heating and air conditioning are present for the extremes in warm and cool weather.
The Pet Hospital has changed over the years with the advances of technology and the increasing expectations of pet parents for the care and well being of their beloved pets. Computer technology has allowed us to improve with time, including on site blood panels that give results within minutes. Digital radiography with email consults with boarded radiologists. Cardiac and abdominal ultrasound with telecommunication consults as well. Dental procedures have matured with digital radiography, advanced techniques including endodontics and advanced monitoring techniques with anesthesia.