Pendleton Welcomes New mobile Veterinary Service, Blue Mountain Veterinary Clinic
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A new option for pet care is now available in Pendleton, Oregon, as veterinarian Tori Mathews launches the Blue Mountain Veterinary Clinic, initially operating as a mobile service to address a critical shortage of animal healthcare professionals in the region.
PENDLETON – For Tori Mathews, the path to becoming a veterinarian was set in motion at a remarkably young age.”When I was about 5, I just decided I wanted to be a vet,” Mathews said. “It m
Early Life and Dedication to Animal Care
Mathews’ commitment to animal welfare began in childhood, growing up with a variety of dogs and cats. “We always had a lot of different dogs and a lot of different cats,” she recalled. “My mom always let me take the pets to the vet because she knew I enjoyed it.” This early exposure fostered a deep connection and solidified her career aspirations.
During her teenage years, Mathews actively volunteered at both Animal Clinic East and the Blue Mountain Humane Society in walla Walla, gaining invaluable experience and further fueling her dedication to animal care. This hands-on involvement provided a strong foundation for her future studies and professional pursuits.
Global Education and return to Pendleton
Mathews pursued her academic goals with determination, earning her undergraduate degree from colorado State University.Seeking broader experience, she completed internships in South Africa, where she discovered opportunities to study at American-accredited veterinary schools internationally. She ultimately chose the University of Melbourne in Australia, attracted by it’s comparable program and, as she noted, “it’s a little bit warmer than here.”
After completing her education abroad, Mathews returned to the United States and worked as an associate veterinarian at the Riverside Veterinary Clinic in Pendleton. however, the desire to establish her own practice proved strong. “It’s been something I’ve wanted to do for a long time,” she explained. “It’s kind of in my blood to own my own business. It was time for me to step away and do it on my own.”
Mobile Veterinary Service Addresses Local Needs
Currently, the Blue Mountain Veterinary Clinic operates as a mobile vet service, with Mathews providing care from her home and vehicle.”It’s a mobile vet service for now until I get everything going,” Mathews stated. She and her husband, Robin, who owns several businesses, are actively working to secure a temporary building while plans for a permanent clinic are developed.
Temporarily, Mathews is a one-person operation, but she anticipates expanding her team. “I hope to bring on another vet in a couple of years,” she said, acknowledging the meaningful vet shortage in the area.
Focus on Preventative Care and Community Health
Mathews is committed to providing accessible and affordable veterinary care to the community. She plans to offer low-cost spay and neuter clinics twice a year, alongside vaccine clinics every couple of months. “It’s significant to get animals healthier so we have less disease,” she emphasized.
Specifically,Mathews highlighted the prevalence of parvovirus in Pendleton,a highly contagious and perhaps fatal virus affecting dogs,particularly puppies. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal tract and immune system, spreading through contaminated feces and surfaces.
Currently, Mathews is focusing her practice on small animals, specifically dogs and cats, and primarily offering house calls. While she is equipped to treat wounds, conduct checkups, and administer vaccines, she is limited in her ability to perform surgeries or handle serious emergencies until she has a dedicated facility.
“I just want to do my best for everyone,” Mathews said.”It’s not just for the money, but I want to help where I can.” Her dedication to animal welfare and commitment to serving the Pendleton community promise a radiant future for the Blue Mountain Veterinary Clinic.
