'Happy To Be Back:' Tulsa Animal Hospital Reopens After Recovering From 2023 Father's Day Storm

It’s been a long time since Devon Rutherford and her dog Oscar have gone to see the vet at Brookside Animal Hospital. 

“We’re very happy to have you back,” Rutherford said to Dr. Stacey Smith. “I am very happy to be back,” Smith replied. 

She would’ve come earlier but Dr. Smith wasn’t available.

“I didn’t know if this would ever happen or if we’d ever be back,” said Smith. 

On June 18, 2023, the Tulsa Father’s Day storm destroyed Brookside Animal Hospital. Heavy rain and 100-mile winds left the building with no roof and severe water damage.

“You know your livelihood’s on the line, your staff’s livelihood’s on the line, your patients’ health is on the line, it's a lot to see crumble in front of your eyes,” said Dr. Smith. 

Since the storm, business has been put on hold. The staff had to take care of themselves before they could take care of others.

“It broke our hearts to not be able to help because that’s what we’re here for,” Dr. Smith said. 

For Rutherford, not coming back wasn’t an option.

“She’s an amazing vet, so we’re super excited to have her back,” she said. 

With a newly renovated building that’s triple the size it was before, Dr. Smith says the wait was worth it.

“We’re in the light at the end of the tunnel and it’s pretty bright,” she said. 

To view Brookside Animal Hospital's GoFundMe, CLICK HERE.