Joe Peterson, DVM, DABVP (Canine/Feline), earned both his Bachelor of Science degree (1984) and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (1988) from Washington State University. He began his veterinary career in equine racetrack medicine in Southern California before transitioning to small animal medicine in 1991.
In 1996, Dr. Peterson purchased a small-animal practice in Spokane, Washington, where he served as a solo practitioner for 11 years, building a successful hospital that he ultimately sold in 2008. Following the sale of his practice, he worked extensively in emergency medicine in Indiana and Central California before joining North Division Animal Medical Center in Spokane as Medical Director in 2011. Since 2021, Dr. Peterson has also served as the Area Medical Director for 12 VCA hospitals in eastern Washington, North Idaho, and western Montana, providing medical oversight. In addition to his leadership responsibilities, Dr. Peterson has continued to practice emergency medicine on an as-needed basis throughout his career.
In 2016, Dr. Peterson earned board certification as a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) in Canine and Feline Practice, a distinction that recognizes advanced clinical expertise, rigorous professional standards, and an ongoing commitment to continuing education. He is among a select group of ABVP-certified canine/feline specialists nationwide.
Dr. Peterson’s professional interests include endoscopy, orthopedic surgery—particularly TPLO procedures—and diagnostic ultrasound. He is especially passionate about point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) and has served as a co-instructor at numerous national veterinary conferences, helping advance practical ultrasound education for veterinarians nationwide.
Dr. Peterson lives in Spokane with his wife, Judy. They have two sons, Darren and Matthew, and a much-loved Labradoodle named Bode. Outside of veterinary medicine, he enjoys fitness, reading, and spending time with family.
