Jewell Animal Hospital

Story

Jewell Animal Hospital is the oldest operational, small animal hospital west of the Mississippi. It was created by our founder Dr. Jay Jewell Sarhonson upon return from WW2 where he served in the cavalry as a veterinarian. In the cavalry he worked and maintained the mule train which carried heavy armor, food, and medical supplies across the mountains of China to US Troops. Dr. Jewell practiced medicine until the late 1970’s with a flare all of his own. Dr. Jewell collected and was given may dog figurines by clients over the years which are still on display at our hospital as well as his original Doctor’s Bag. You can view is cavalry uniform on display in pristine condition at the Soldier’s Memorial Museum in downtown St. Louis. Dr. Jewell lived in the upstairs of the hospital throughout his life and passed away in 2001 after a weekend of ball room dancing at the wonderful old age of 92 years.

Dr. Krumrey bought the practice from Dr. Jewell in 1977. Dr. Krumrey practice here for 33 years and often referred to Jewell Animal Clinic as his 5th daughter. His fifth daughter was good to him over the years allowing him to raise a family of 4 daughters. He raised his family in St. Louis with his wife and retired in April 2006. Dr. Krumrey clients speak highly of his gentle and understanding nature. He was loved by many.

Dr. Patricia L. Smith is our hospital’s current legacy, came to Jewell Animal Clinic in October 2004 with intentions of purchasing the practice. She formally took over the clinic in July 2006 and changed the name to Jewell Animal Hospital. Dr. Smith and her staff have given the hospital a face lift from head to toe. We have updated the look to a retro 1970 motif and modernized the medicine and the services that can be offered in the hospital while still maintaining the same homey atmosphere.