THE DOCTORS PORTER
From the Re-ECHO, December 2005

Dr. Bennett Porter II opened Porter Dog and Cat Hospital in St. Louis Park in 1947.  He was the son and grandson of veterinarians.  He had graduated from Iowa State College with a degree in veterinary medicine in 1931 and practiced in southern Minnesota until he opened the Park clinic.  He picked St. Louis Park because of its proximity to the University of Minnesota and for its expanding population.

Dr. Porter II's two sons, Dr. Bennett III, Dr. Gene, and his grandson, Dr. Bennett IV, have taken care of Park pets for 57 years.  Dr. Bennett III and Dr. Gene graduated from St. Louis Park High School and went on to graduate from the University of Minnesota in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Bennett II opened his clinic at 4925 Highway 7, just west of Ottawa.  At the time, there was very little else in the neighborhood.  He started in a temporary metal structure in 1947, but by 1950 had built "a new modern fireproof hospital scientifically equipped to give your animal the best care possible."  His new building had to be built on pilings when it was discovered it was on located on the old lakebed of Bass Lake. 

The Porters have seen many changes in their profession.  Their father and grandfather were proud to be known as "horse" doctors because that was mainly what they treated.  Small animal practice was mostly euthanasia. Today people view pets as family members and take their health seriously.  They want them to be healthy and happy.  When Dr. Bennett II started his practice, the only drug available was sulfa.  Today there many drugs available to treat diabetes, heart disease, and cancer in animals. 

The "new modern fireproof hospital" on Highway 7 became inadequate for the level of care possible today.  The Doctors Porter decided to build a new hospital clinic at their Westgate location at 4345 France Ave. So.  They now have a high tech veterinary clinic with computers and the latest technology closely mimicking human treatment facilities. 

The new building was completed in June 2005 and is dedicated to Dr. Bennett Porter II and his wife Edith Adele Porter.  Edith had no formal training but played an important role as a veterinarian's wife.  She helped brew the concoctions, rolled the pills, and could diagnose and dispense when her husband was on call.

The clinic in St. Louis Park was closed, and the Doctors Porter will operate in the new building. We regret losing a great Park tradition but they are still available to the animals of St. Louis Park, and we wish them well.



 

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This information comes from a variety of sources: newspapers, books, yearbooks, phone directories, interviews, etc. Given the varied sources, we cannot guarantee that all of this information is correct, and welcome any additions and corrections. Please contact us with your contributions and comments.