Tim sits down with Dr. Jereld Rice, a veterinarian at Gallatin Veterinary Hospital, to talk about what it means to care for animals and their people in the Gallatin Valley. Jereld shares how his path to veterinary medicine wasn’t a straight line, but a calling he returned to with renewed resolve. With honesty and humility, he breaks down the range of services offered at the clinic—from general wellness to reproductive specialties—and what sets their team apart in both care and character.
Quality Care with a Local Touch
Gallatin Veterinary Hospital has served Bozeman-area families for over 20 years. With six veterinarians on staff, they offer general and urgent care for dogs and cats. While they’re not a 24-hour emergency facility, they do everything possible to accommodate clients—new and returning—when something unexpected comes up.
“We specialize in being generalists,” Jereld says. “But we have a board-certified theriogenologist on staff for reproductive services. We also offer laparoscopic spays and gastropexy procedures, which help prevent torsion and bloat in large-breed dogs.”
Whether it’s dental care, surgery, vaccinations, or acupuncture, the goal is always the same: keeping pets healthy and strengthening the bond between animals and their humans.
Serving Pets, Supporting People
Gallatin Veterinary Hospital prides itself on practicing high-quality medicine and building lasting relationships.
“I think people can register that when they come to Gallatin Veterinary Hospital, they are going to get high-end care, high-end options,” Jereld shares. “But we’re also a team that works with people. We know everyone’s situation is different, and we’re here to walk through that with them.”
The clinic is located just off Frontage Road near Les Schwab, providing easy access for families in Bozeman, Belgrade, and beyond. They’re right next to Bridger Veterinary Specialists, and often collaborate to ensure animals receive the right level of care—whether that’s a same-day surgery or a specialist referral.
Preventing Trouble Before It Starts
Jereld offers practical advice for pet owners—especially those new to Montana or spending time at remote cabins.
“Go around and look in those spaces—crawl spaces, sheds, barns. You want to make sure nothing like rat bait was left behind. It’s common, and it’s dangerous.”
He also highlights the importance of knowing what’s toxic to dogs: raisins, grapes, chocolate, and more. When in doubt, he recommends calling the Pet Poison Helpline to speak directly to a toxicologist before heading in. That step can save time, money, and unnecessary worry.
From the Farm to the Field
Jereld’s passion for veterinary medicine traces back to his childhood on a Michigan dairy farm, where he witnessed a C-section performed on a cow.
“It was amazing. To see a live calf and watch the mom recover—that stuck with me,” he says. “I didn’t go straight through. I struggled with chemistry and ended up getting a degree in elementary education. But I came back to it. It was always in me.”
Today, he’s part of a team that’s carrying on a trusted legacy of care—and doing it with grounded Montana hospitality.
Your Pet’s Partner in Health
Gallatin Veterinary Hospital is more than a clinic—it’s a place where animals are treated like family, and pet owners are met with both skill and compassion. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just passing through, they’re here when you need them.
To learn more about Gallatin Veterinary Hospital, go to https://gallatinvethospital.com/
