Daryl Hartman

Medical Director

One of Dr. Daryl Hartman's most memorable veterinary experiences took place at a client's home. Many years ago, Daryl had an elderly client who lived alone with her cat, and wasn't able to get to the hospital for her cat's medication and prescription-diet food. The woman considered her cat a treasured friend, and Daryl wanted to make sure the cat received the proper care. He often stopped by the woman's apartment with the cat's medication and food, keeping an eye on the cat and enjoying a pleasant visit with his client. While Daryl's client was grateful for his personalized attention, he feels honored that he could help the woman and her cat have an improved quality of life!

Growing up in a family of 11 children, Daryl was born in Nebraska and moved to Iowa when he was 12 years old. During Daryl's teenage years, he spent every summer on his sister's farm, where he received a well-rounded introduction to animal care. His sister's animals included pigs, cattle, a milk cow, two horses, one dog, and numerous cats. Looking back, Daryl values those farm experiences as some of the best times in his life.

After Daryl graduated from high school, he began college as a biology major. After spending some time with his pre-vet program friends, Daryl realized he would enjoy the challenges and rewards of a veterinary career. Through working with each client, and healing their beloved pet, he could make a difference in that family's life.

After Daryl graduated from veterinary school, he opened a practice in Richfield in 1978. He joined Anoka West Pet Hospital in 1980, becoming a partner in 1981. Daryl and his team built Pine Ridge Pet Care Hospital and Wellness Center in 2001, and he's pleased that the hospital has continued to grow and become a valued part of the community. After all these years, Daryl still loves interacting with his patients and their pet parents. He feels a sense of satisfaction when he can bring joy to pet owners' lives by keeping their beloved pets healthy and giving them a comfortable, longer life.