Norwalk Veterinary Hospital was founded in 1942 by Dr. George Alfson (Cornell ’40) and was originally located farther north on the Post Road in Norwalk. In 1950, Dr. Alfson was joined by his Cornell classmate, Dr. Paul Kahl (Cornell ’40). At that time, dairy farms were still active throughout the area, and the practice provided care for both large and small animals.
In 1955, the practice moved to its present location following the purchase of an existing boarding kennel set amid peach and apple orchards. The property included four separate buildings: one was converted into a veterinary hospital, while the others served as a boarding kennel, a cattery with outdoor runs, and an old farmhouse located where McDonald’s now stands.
By the late 1950s, Norwalk Veterinary Hospital was well established and ready to expand. Dr. Donald W. Hartrick graduated from the Cornell School of Veterinary Medicine in 1963 and joined Drs. Alfson and Kahl as their first associate in July of that year. He became a partner in 1970 and assumed sole ownership in 1980 following the retirement of the two senior partners. Under Dr. Hartrick’s leadership, the facility evolved into the largest single-owner veterinary complex in the Northeast. Since 1967, the hospital has maintained a four-doctor staff, and many young veterinarians have begun their professional careers at Norwalk Veterinary Hospital.
The 1960s and 1970s marked a period when veterinary medicine truly came into its own, fueled by advances in technology and a booming economy. As the practice grew, the need for an expanded and modernized facility became clear. In January 1970, the current award-winning hospital opened its doors and was honored as Veterinary Economics’ 1970 Hospital of the Year. The physical plant remains unchanged today and continues to be recognized as one of the premier veterinary facilities in the United States.
In January 1995, Dr. Charles Duffy (University of Pennsylvania ’88) and Dr. Janice Duffy (University of Pennsylvania ’91) joined Dr. Hartrick in a partnership commitment with a planned transition of ownership.
Dr. Hartrick retired in December 2000 to pursue other interests and spend more time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. This transition ensured that the Norwalk Veterinary Hospital tradition of personal attention combined with high-level veterinary care would continue for generations to come.
Thank you for trusting us with the care of your animals. We are honored to serve you.