Gary Yavitz, DVM, has directed Spoede Animal Hospital since 1980. A native St. Louisan, he is a 1977 graduate of the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. While completing his studies, he was elected to membership into Phi Zeta, the honor society of veterinary medicine. During his three years of post graduate work in small animal practice in White Plains, New York, Dr. Yavitz was a Director on the board of the Westchester-Rockland Veterinary Medical Association.

Dr. Yavitz is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Missouri Veterinary Medical Association, and the Cornell Feline Health Center. For over 20 years, Dr. Yavitz has contributed his expert advice and services at the University City rabies clinic held annually in April. Currently, Dr. Yavitz is the veterinary care provider for the St. John's Mercy Hospital Microsurgery Lab. He has a special interest in the care of senior pets.

Dr. Yavitz and his wife, Louise, are the parents of two sons, one a college junior majoring in music performance at the University of Missouri, St. Louis, and the other a 6th grade teacher at the Wedgwood Elementary School in Florissant, Missouri. The Yavitz’s have a domestic longhaired cat, Zoe, and an Australian shepherd, Flint, who rides with Dr. Yavitz daily to work and to agility classes at Purina Farms.

Louise has worked in the veterinary field for more than twenty years, and with Spoede Animal Hospital since 1994. A lifelong pet lover and owner, she and her husband, Rick, are the proud parents of two daughters. Now that the girls have flown the coop, their Vizsla, Ike, runs the house.

Former president and 18-year member of the Saint Louis Zoo Docent Association, Louise enjoys volunteering as an animal handler and teacher for Zoo visitors. She is also a nationally accredited member of the Association of Zoo and Aquarium Docents (AZAD) and has represented the Saint Louis Zoo in that organization as well as served as Chair of their National Conference in 2007.

Frank joined the staff of Spoede Animal Hospital in the summer of 1999. This California native has made a career out of caring for animals. Coming from a family dedicated to the training and care of guard dogs, it was a natural turn of events which drew him to the Humane Society of Missouri. During his 13 years with that organization, Frank earned seven awards, including the Wursti Award in 1996 for his superb care and dedication, and the Director's Choice Award in both 1997 and 1998. Frank and his wife, Maria, are the proud parents of a son, Joseph, and share their home with three dogs and two cats.