Our History
For 50 years, Anchor Animal Hospital has cared for pets across New Bedford and Dartmouth. Founded in 1975 by Drs. Gerald Pietsch and Lawrence Shinnamon, Anchor was build on a promise of lifelong learning, innovation, and compassionate care. In 2011, Dr. Kate Pietsch - inspired by her father's legacy and her own years working at Anchor - became owner and has led the hospital forward with the same commitment to excellence.
50 Years of Caring for Pets and Families
Reaching 50 years is more than a milestone - it reflects the trust of generations of families. Many of our current clients grew up bringing their childhood pets to Anchor and now entrust us with the care of their own. That continuity and dictation of our doctors, technicians, and client care team has shaped who we are today and how we'll keep caring for pets tomorrow.
AAHA Accredited Since 1980
Anchor Animal Hospital has been an accredited member of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) for over 40 years - an honor earned by only about 15% of veterinary hospitals in North America. AAHA accreditation involves regular evaluations to ensure we meet the highest standards in the patient care, safety, and medical protocol.
Advancing Veterinary Care
Under Dr. Kate's leadership, we continue to pair advanced medicine with gentle, low stress handling:
- Dentistry: Every doctor is trained in current techniques. We use digital dental x-rays to spot disease below the gumline and create an individualized treatment plan.
- Radiology (x-rays): A core strength since day one. WE capture and interpret images in-house and, when needed, consult board-certified radiologists for timely, detailed reports.
- Ultrasound: Among the first veterinary hospitals in the area to integrate ultrasound into daily practice; we've provided abdominal ultrasounds and echocardiograms for over 20 years.
- Pain Management: Dr. Kate champions multimodal pain control, including laser therapy and acupuncture, to support healing and comfort.
Community Connection
For 50 years, Anchor Animal Hospital has been independently owned and family led. We believe great veterinary care includes caring for our neighbors across Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
We support local humane societies, rescue partners, and community organizations through supporting fundraising, donating services and supplies, and supporting events. Recent partners include the Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust, Westport Land Trust, the Southcoast Open Studio Tour, Forever Paws Animal Shelter, and Human Society & Shelter Southcoast.
Learn more on our Community Page
Anchor Animal Hospital Through the Years
At Anchor Animal Hospital, our story is shaped by the people, patients, and moments that make our practice special. This photo collection shares a glimpse into our history — from the early days with our founding veterinarians Dr. Gerald Pietsch (retired) and Dr. Shinnamon, to Dr. Kate’s beginnings as a technician, and into more recent memories of our team and hospital.
These albums celebrate our growth, the bond we share with our patients, and the dedication of the doctors and staff who have cared for generations of pets. We invite you to explore the images below and enjoy a look back at the people and moments that make Anchor what it is today.
Anchor Memories – The Early Days
Historic photos showing the hospital’s beginnings and earlier years to today.
Dr. Gerald Pietsch – Founding Veterinarian
Images of Dr. Pietsch with patients and staff, capturing his legacy.
Dr. Shinnamon – Founding Veterinarian
Highlighting another key figure in Anchor’s history.
Dr. Kate – Early Technician Years
Photos of Dr. Kate before becoming a veterinarian, showing her roots at Anchor.
Dr. Kate – With Patients (2016)
More recent images of Dr. Kate with patients.
Anchor Team – Recent Years
Modern hospital life, post-2020, including pandemic adaptations.
Scenes Over the Years
Older History
