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Dog laying in grass

About Us

Cat in a field pawing at a butterfly

Our Story

Starch Pet Hospital has been a member of the Drake Community since 1948 when Dr. Cyrus Starch started the hospital. In 1992, he sold the practice to Dr. Brian Martz and Dr. Michael Henning, and in 1996 they built a new clinic at 2222 University Avenue. This new clinic, outfitted with all of the latest equipment and technology, allows us to provide the highest quality veterinary care available in the Des Moines area.

In addition to our dedication to our patients, we also feel strongly about giving back to the community in which we live and work. We work with the Des Moines Police Department, bomb and patrol dogs, as well as the Des Moines ATF canines. We also provide veterinary care to all greyhounds coming off the track who will eventually be taken in by Heartland Greyhound Association. We are active in community events such as the first annual DSMove event that gave local residents and businesses the chance to get out and meet each other.

Guineapig sitting in the grass

Pets We Care For

Common Household Pets: Dogs, Cats

Exotic Pets: Birds, Ferrets, Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hedgehogs, Rodents (rats, hamsters, gerbils, etc.)