Big Hearts. Skilled Hands.
Care You Can Trust.

At Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic, we combine advanced medical and surgical care with the warmth and familiarity of a locally owned practice. From preventive visits to orthopedic surgeries, we treat your pets like family—because here, you’re not just a client, you’re part of our community.

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What Sets Us Apart
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Why Choose Us

What Sets Us Apart

Choosing a veterinary clinic isn’t just about services offered—it’s about trust, connection, and feeling like your concerns are truly heard. At Birch Bark, we offer the best of both worlds: modern veterinary medicine backed by a compassionate, small-town approach. Here’s what makes us different:

Privately Owned and Community Focused

We’re a locally owned practice—not part of a corporate chain—so every decision is made with your pet’s best interest in mind.

Friendly, Familiar Team

You’ll see the same caring faces each visit. We love what we do, and our positive, close-knit team helps pets (and people) feel at ease.

Flexible, Accessible Care

With payment options like CareCredit and Scratchpay, and Trupanion direct pay, we help make high-quality veterinary care manageable for real-life budgets.

Advanced Services

From TPLO and soft tissue surgery to digital radiology and cryotherapy, we bring high-level care to the Lakes Region—no referral required.

Clear Communication

We listen, explain, and collaborate—never pressure. Whether you need options, time, or support, we’re here to guide you, not lecture you.

Rooted in the Lakes Region

We proudly serve Gilford and surrounding communities with care that reflects the values of the region we call home.

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Services

Services Tailored to Your Pet’s Needs

At Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic, we provide advanced medical and surgical care in a setting that feels like home. Whether your pet needs a routine check-up or specialized orthopedic surgery, we’re here with the skill, technology, and compassion to support you both. Here are a few of the services we’re proud to offer:

Wellness And Preventive Care

Routine exams, parasite prevention, and wellness bloodwork to keep your pet healthy through every life stage.
Explore wellness care

Chronic Disease Management

Helping pets thrive with conditions like thyroid disorders, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease.
Read on to learn more

Orthopedic Surgery

From TPLO to fracture repair, we offer advanced orthopedic procedures—right here in the Lakes Region.
See our orthopedic services

Diagnostics and Imaging

In-house lab work, digital radiology, and point-of-care ultrasound help us diagnose quickly and accurately.
Check out our diagnostics

Soft Tissue Surgery

Lump removals, cherry eye repair, spay/neuter, biopsies, and more—all performed with precision and care.
View surgery options

Senior Pet Care

Customized care plans, pain management options, and mobility support to keep your aging pet comfortable and thriving.
Read about senior care
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Testimonials

Hear from Our Clients

We believe great care speaks for itself—but it’s even more meaningful when it comes from the people (and pets) we’re honored to serve. From routine visits to complex surgeries, our clients at Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic trust us to provide compassionate, skilled, and down-to-earth veterinary care. Here’s what they have to say about their experiences with our team.

Celeste

My Swiss Mountain Dog had TPLO surgery in May with Dr Keller at Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic. The entire staff was respectful, knowledgeable, empathetic to Cocoa's needs, listened and heard me when I asked questions, and were pleasant to work with. They made the process from start to finish easy right down to filing the claim with the insurance carrier for me. The clinic it self is very clean. I am grateful for the care they give Cocoa and my other pets! Thank you Dr. Keller and the Staff of Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic!
Celeste

Sarah

The entire staff is friendly courteous and TRULY cares about your pet and your whole familys well being. Kind people with a wealth of knowledge. Thank you!
Sarah

Stephanie

Both my dogs see Dr McDonald. He is very patient and knowledgeable and his staff is kind and empathetic to my dogs...
Stephanie

Patricia

The best veterinarian in the lakes region!!!!! All the girls are so amazing! And Dr. MacDonald is brilliant!!! What a blessing to have him as our new veterinarian.
Patricia
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Frequently Asked Question
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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

We know pet care comes with lots of questions—and we’re here to help. Below are some of the most common things our clients ask. If you don’t see your question here, just give us a call—we’re always happy to talk.

Yes! We’re currently welcoming new pets and their people to Birch Bark. Whether you’re new to the area or just looking for a more personal kind of veterinary care, we’d love to meet you.

Absolutely. Even in colder months, parasites can survive indoors or during mild weather. Year-round prevention is the safest way to protect your pet—and your home—from serious illnesses.

Yes. Annual testing for fecal parasites, heartworm, and tick-borne diseases helps us catch problems early—often before your pet shows signs of illness. It’s a simple way to stay one step ahead.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Age, breed, and lifestyle all play a role. The best way to decide is to schedule a consultation with us so we can make a recommendation based on your individual pet.

Unexpected costs can be stressful. That’s why we offer flexible payment options through CareCredit and Scratchpay. We’ll work with you to find a path forward—without judgment.