Between treating dogs, cats, reptiles, birds, cows, horses, bears, deer, bobcats, raccoons, mountain lions, badgers, foxes, elk and raptors, Dr. Mike Brooks is no stranger to animals and their veterinary needs. 

Brooks, who owns and manages Brooks Veterinary Services, has always had a passion for animals and has wanted to be a vet for as long as he can remember. 

“One of the first memories I have is picking up an injured falconer’s hawk on my way home from school in first or second grade and I really wanted to help it,” Brooks said with a smile. “I graduated CSU in 1984 and was here one week later and haven’t been anywhere since.” 

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That passion is clear to Brooks’ clients, both human and four-legged, in his everyday practice. Whether it’s a late night emergency or an early morning delivery, Brooks tries to be available as often as he can. 

He said he’s honored this year as the county’s best pet service, a category where his practice beat out other vets and amenities for furry friends. 

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“I think Grand County has a wonderful set of veterinarians and it means a lot, especially given the time, evenings, weekends, I’ve given, so I sure appreciate the nod that people are noticing some of that effort,” Brooks said. 

Aside from large and small veterinary services, Brooks also does surgery, dentistry work, nutritional counseling and sells medications and food. He works with Colorado Parks and Wildlife occasionally. 

Outside his office, Brooks volunteers his time at local schools, talking to classes about his work or supervising dissections. 

He attributes his success in part to his ability to provide a range of services to a variety of animals, while also working as more than just a vet. 

“Being adaptable and being able to do a lot of things yourself … just kind of being a jack of all trades and whatever needed to be done, I did it myself pretty much,” he said of being a small business owner. “We hope to be as responsive as we can be … so I think availability is key.” 

In addition to his Renaissance man skills, Brooks knows the importance of communication and empathy in his line of work. Over the course of his career, he said he’s had more special cases than he could recount. 

“The dedication of my clientele and people in general have for their animals, it’s amazing the investment they have and there’s too many memories to mention,” he said. “Helping people and helping animals are my most special memories.” 

After an initially scary start to the year, Brooks is optimistic that things are only picking up. He noted Grand County has been discovered, expanding the community in exciting new ways.