Dr. Steve Carter brings decades of experience and a passion for animal well-being to Carter Pet Hospital, a premier veterinary clinic located in Cathedral City, California. With a career spanning over 40 years, Dr. Carter’s journey in veterinary medicine is marked by dedication, innovation, and a deep commitment to the communities he serves. From establishing equine surgical centers to leading award-winning animal hospitals, his expertise is now focused on providing exceptional care for your beloved companion animals at Carter Pet Hospital.
Dr. Carter’s veterinary career began after graduating from Colorado State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1981. His early experience included practicing companion animal medicine in Park City, Utah, before joining Valley Animal Medical Center in Indio, California, in 1984. Demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and specialized skills, Dr. Carter developed a sport horse practice at the El Dorado Polo Club and, in 1986, established the Desert Equine Hospital, the Coachella Valley’s first equine surgical hospital. During this period, he also contributed his surgical expertise to Helen Woodward Veterinary Hospital in Rancho Santa Fe, California, showcasing his versatility and commitment to a wide range of animal care.
Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Carter has a strong commitment to community and animal welfare. In 1987, he co-founded the Desert Trails Foundation with Barbara Sinatra and Merv Griffin. This initiative played a crucial role in creating, establishing, and protecting equestrian trails in the eastern Coachella Valley, reflecting his passion for both animals and outdoor activities. His 30-year membership with the Desert Riders further illustrates his dedication to the local equestrian community.
In 1993, Dr. Carter’s career path led him to Salt Lake City, where he took on the role of Chief of Staff at Willow Creek Veterinary Hospital. From 1993 to 1998, he was instrumental in designing and developing this hospital into an AAHA-accredited, award-winning facility, highlighting his leadership and vision in veterinary hospital management. After a brief retirement in Wyoming, Dr. Carter returned to the Coachella Valley in 2001, again serving as Chief of Staff at Valley Animal Medical Center until 2003. His expertise was further sought internationally when he consulted with a privately funded animal rescue in Kona, Hawaii, from 2005 to 2008, where he helped establish an animal medical surgical hospital and rescue center.
Returning to his entrepreneurial roots, Dr. Carter built Carter Animal Hospital in Thayne, Wyoming, in 2004, followed by the opening of Teton Animal Hospital in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, in 2010. Simultaneously, in 2007, he established Carter Animal Hospital in Cathedral City, California, bringing his comprehensive veterinary services back to the Coachella Valley. His commitment to providing specialized care extended throughout Wyoming, with private referral surgical practices in Casper, Lander, and Boulder.
Dr. Carter’s dedication to animal welfare is evident in his extensive involvement with animal rescue organizations. While in Wyoming, he served on the boards of Lucky’s Place Animal Rescue, Teton Valley Animal Shelter, and the Jackson Hole Humane Society. Currently residing in Rancho Mirage, California, and Bedford, Wyoming, Dr. Carter remains actively involved in the veterinary community. He holds memberships in prestigious organizations including the AVMA, CVMA, WVMA AAHA, and SDVMA, and is a Fellow of the American Laser Society, demonstrating his commitment to staying at the forefront of veterinary medicine. Adding to his diverse interests, Dr. Carter is also a licensed private pilot and a member of the Cirrus Pilots Association.
Carter Pet Hospital in Cathedral City is a welcoming and inclusive practice, proudly LGBT-owned and dedicated to providing exceptional veterinary care to every pet and owner in the community. Dr. Carter and his team invite new clients to experience their commitment to compassionate, high-quality veterinary services. At Carter Pet Hospital, your pet’s health and well-being are the top priority.
