(952) 935-5566 (952) 935-5566
Fax: (952) 935-1823
8870 Excelsior Blvd
Hopkins, MN 55343

Meet Our Veterinary Team

Hopkins Pet Hospital is a full-service veterinary medical facility, located in Hopkins, MN. The professional and courteous staff at Hopkins Pet Hospital seeks to provide the best possible medical care, surgical care, dental care and physical therapy for their highly-valued patients. We are committed to promoting responsible pet ownership, preventative health care and health-related educational opportunities for our clients. Hopkins Pet Hospital strives to offer excellence in veterinary care to Hopkins, MN and surrounding areas. Please take a moment to contact us today, to learn more about our veterinary practice and to find our more information about how Hopkins Pet Hospital can serve the needs of you and your cherished pet.

DAVID A SPONG, Veterinarian

Dr. Spong received a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia College, he then received his Bachelor of Science with distinction followed by his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota. He has owned and been treating patients at the Hopkins Pet Hospital for over 45 years. He is an active horse rider, skier, hunter and enjoys spending time taking care of his animals on his farm.

Dr. Julie Larson, Veterinarian

Dr Julie Larson joined us in February 2022. She hails from rural Wisconsin, where she grew up, started her undergrad studies, and then left for Minnesota to complete her DVM studies and training. Back in Wisconsin after graduation and internship, she practiced for nearly 40 years in the west-central area of the state.

Moving to Minnesota in 2020, Dr Julie now lives closer to her grown children and their families; and she has the opportunity to provide companion animal medicine, surgery, and wellness care.

Animal husbandry and health, and providing veterinary care for animals and their owners has been fulfilling to Dr Larson throughout her life. She doesn’t plan to leave practice soon—what she says about the animals, diagnostic and treatment outcomes, relationships and continuing education, is this: “It never gets old!”

GWEN, Head Certified Veterinary Technician and Practice Manager

Gwen has not only been the head technician at Hopkins Pet Hospital for over 25 years but she is also the Practice Manager. She is an excellent source of information on behavior and health of domestic and pocket pets. She recently upgraded her certification to include Physical and Laser therapy, which she enjoys doing for pets and their owners to help them recover after surgery and to promote healing. Gwen is a licensed wildlife rehabilitator and is known for having many animals being cared for to go along with her many personal pets to include her Siamese and Cornish Rex cats, her bull mastiffs, cattle dogs and many farm animals from horses to guinea hens. Her main love here at the Hospital is helping owners care for their pets.

NICOLE, Certified Veterinary Technician

Nicole is a CVT (Certified Veterinary Technician). She enjoys spending time with her husband and her dog, Jackson and cat Alfred. She loves animals and helping them is the best part of her day.

Randi, Vet Assistant

Randi has been employed with Hopkins Pet Hospital since 2007. She is here to help all the owners with questions regarding pets health and to help schedule their appointments. She lives with her son Derek, her cats Dewey and Lambeau, and dog Tater Tot. In case you didn't guess she loves the Packers.

Stormy, Receptionist

Stormy is originally from the state of Maine. With 20 years of customer service she is the first face that you will see in the morning during the week. She is the mother of two, Nana of four, her furry companion Doug is her beloved best friend. She is always ready to help all our clients with any needs they may have.

Aubrey, Receptionist

Aubrey is a long time animal lover and is here to help clients ensure the health of all of their pets. She lives with her dog, Felix, and her cat, Felony. In her free time, she enjoys taking her pets on long walks- even if her cat isn't very good at it.

Steve, Kennel Manager

Steve is Hopkins Pet Hospital's kennel manager, but has been working as an assistant here since 2004. He is here to care for all the animals that need to stay with us for both boarding and for hospitalized care. He lives with his two dogs, Ace and Bella Blue. Steve also has been involved with rescue since 2003, which he loves!

Recent Blog Posts

Getting Ahead of Fleas: Your Fall Guide to Parasite Prevention

As pet owners, we can attest that flea infestation can not only be annoying but also extremely dangerous to our pets. Fleas can cause severe skin irritation, anemia, and even transmit deadly diseases. As we approach the fall season, it's essential to be proactive in preventing fleas before they become a problem. In this article, we will discuss the flea life cycle, the dangers of fleas infesting your pet, signs to look out for, the benefits of flea prevention, and why you should purchase flea prevention medication from us, your trusted veterinarian.

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Pet Owner’s Springtime Checklist

Have you thrown yourself into your spring cleaning? If you’re like most people, you’re airing out the house, getting some plants in the ground, and enjoying the beauty of this season with your pet by your side. In fact, this is one of the best times of year to be a pet–the birds and squirrels are active and back to their favorite hobby of entertaining our dogs and cats, and the weather is perfect for letting some fresh air in for your cat or taking your dog on a long walk. If you’ve knocked out your spring cleaning and are ready to move on to some pet care musts, we’re here to help! We put together a list to help you plan your springtime pet care.

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Hidden Signs of Pain: How to Recognize Discomfort in Your Pet

When our pets are sick or injured, they can’t tell us where it hurts or how they feel. However, there are subtle signs that can help you determine when your pet isn’t feeling well. Knowing how to recognize these hidden signs of pain is essential for getting your pet the help they need and improving their comfort.

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Providing Exceptional Veterinary Care

Our commitment to you is to join you on your journey of being a great pet owner. We understand that your pets are part of your family,
and we will provide veterinary care options to help maximize the years you enjoy together!

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