Dr. Wayne Hasbargen attended junior college at Rainy River Community College. He then went on to attend the University of Minnesota. Dr. Hasbargen graduated from the University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine in 1976. He then worked in Vancouver, Washington the first year after graduation. The next year, returning home was his next step. For the next two and half years he worked for Dr. Himes of Falls Veterinary Hospital.
Rainy River Veterinary Hospital began in 1979 out of the home of Dr. and Mrs. Hasbargen. A motorhome was used for house calls and parked in the mall parking-lot for clients to come for outpatient services. The motorhome was also used to travel an extensive area, including Baudette and Big Falls.
In 1980 the current International Falls location, 900 Third Avenue, was purchased from Mr. Snyker, where it had been a sports shop. Originally, the building was a bulk oil and gas company. When purchased, the back half of the building was completely unfinished, including a dirt floor and no ceiling. After much hard work and several renovations, Rainy River Veterinary Hospital has grown into a full-service, well-equipped practice.
Later that year, an outpatient satellite clinic was established in Baudette. Twenty years later, another clinic was placed in Warroad, changing its building location three times before closing in 2021. Currently, the Baudette clinic continues to serve its area, located in the middle of town on Highway 11.
Rainy River Veterinary Hospital was incorporated in 1998 to take advantage of opportunities for growth and expansion. The growth of the business can be attributed to many factors; addition of advanced medical equipment, exceptional staff, improved client and patient care, but most of all because of the passion and dedication of our staff team. We desire to continue Rainy River Veterinary Hospital’s quality veterinary care to all pets and clients.
