Local Veterinarian Launches Independent Practice

Following a decade working at Echo Ridge Veterinary Hospital, Dr. Jenna Barker announced her departure and the upcoming launch of her own independent practice, Valley View Veterinary Service PLLC. The new mixed-animal clinic will be located between Colville and Kettle Falls at the former Tripp Distribution Center at 550 Hwy. 395 N, according to Barker. Her announcement follows a mass email recently sent by the Echo Ridge team to their clients, which confirmed Barker’s final day at that practice as June 3. In the email, the clinic expressed gratitude for her years of dedication and informed clients that the clinic would be implementing a modified appointment scheduling structure and service limitations as they navigate the transition. Barker said she plans to begin answering phones and scheduling appointments for Valley View Veterinary Service on June 11. She said the transition marks a move toward a traditional, community-focused model of veterinary medicine, and emphasized her desire to provide essential support for local pets and livestock in a manner inspired by the longtime practice of the late Dr. Terry Richards. According to Barker, her new clinic will offer a phased rollout of services as the facility undergoes remodeling. Her services will include small animal care such as general preventative medicine, vaccinations, in-house blood work, and X-rays. While surgery and dental procedures will not be offered initially, Barker said she will provide both in-clinic and at-home euthanasia services. For large animal clients, mobile and farm calls will remain available immediately, she said. Barker added that her permanent haul-in facility for cattle and horses is expected to be completed by August, featuring horse stocks for dental floats and minor colics, as well as full cattle facilities for vaccinations, pregnancy checking, and brand inspections. A cattle scale will be maintained on-site for local fair youth to weigh their animal projects as well. Barker said she has established an agreement with Deer Park Veterinary Clinic and Pet Emergency Clinic in Spokane for emergency services and surgeries. This partnership allows patients to receive urgent care or surgery elsewhere while returning to Valley View for local follow-up treatment, she said. The practice aims to be fully functional by this fall. For more information, email Barker at valleyviewvetservice@gmail.com.