This year marks a significant milestone for Cascade Hospital for Animals (CHFA) – our 70th anniversary! It's a moment to reflect on the enduring bonds we've forged with our community, the rich history that has shaped us, and the family legacy that continues to guide our practice. More than a veterinary hospital, CHFA has become a cornerstone of our community, a testament to unwavering dedication, and a living legacy carried through three generations of the Siegle family.
Early Roots in Alto and the Cascade Vision
Dr. Richard "Dick" Siegle's veterinary journey began in Alto, Michigan, where he established his practice in 1939 after graduating from Michigan State University. He served the community diligently, operating from his residence, conducting farm calls, and treating a wide range of animals. His dedication was evident from the start, as he filled a crucial need for the community following the passing of the town's previous veterinarian.
From approximately 1942 to 1945, Dr. Siegle served our country in World War II, where he was stationed in the Philippines and New Guinea. Post-WWII, Dr. Richard D. Siegle and his wife Mabel owned a home in Alto and operated a veterinary clinic out of a converted two stall garage. He saw large and small animals and made farm calls for large animals.
While firmly rooted in Alto, Dr. Siegle recognized the growing potential of the Cascade area. Upon the advice of a trusted banker in Alto, who noted the burgeoning community and the increasing need for pet care, Dr. Siegle purchased a farmhouse in Cascade in 1955. This strategic decision marked the beginning of Cascade Hospital for Animals.
He continued to serve both communities, maintaining his practice in Alto and surrounding areas, and his practice in Cascade. His wife, Mabel, was integral to both operations, assisting with surgeries and meticulously managing the clinic's records, documenting patient information on handwritten 4x6 cards.
In 1962, recognizing the growing demands of his practice, Dr. Siegle welcomed Dr. Roy Westcott as a partner. By 1967, the physical demands of large animal care became too difficult, leading Dr. Siegle to discontinue his large animal practice and concentrate solely on small animal/pet care at CHFA. This pivotal moment solidified Cascade Hospital for Animals’ role as a dedicated provider of care for beloved pets within the Cascade community.
Transition and Growth: A Family Tradition Continues
In 1978, a new chapter began as Dr. Richard L. "Rick" Siegle, Dr. Dick Siegle's son, graduated from Michigan State veterinary school and joined the practice. At this time, Dr. Roy Westcott retired, and the father-son team took the helm.
Dr. Rick Siegle dedicated himself to building the practice, but more importantly, he dedicated himself to the community. In a time when there were no emergency hospitals and sometimes no other veterinarians available for emergency calls, especially on holidays, Dr. Rick Siegle stepped up. His commitment to the community was evident in his willingness to answer calls at all hours.
In 1983, Dr. Rick Siegle oversaw the construction of a new, 4,500 sq. ft. modern facility, expanding the clinic's capabilities significantly. This commitment to excellence was recognized when Cascade Hospital for Animals was awarded United States Veterinary Hospital of the Year, a testament to the clinic's dedication to quality care.
In 1984, Dr. Dick Siegle retired, leaving the practice in the capable hands of his son.
The mid-1990s marked a period of significant growth and transition for Cascade Hospital for Animals. In 1993, Dr. Steve McBride joined the practice as a partner, signaling a new phase of leadership. That same year, Dr. Richard L. Siegle oversaw a major expansion, increasing the clinic's size from 4,500 to 9,000 square feet. This expansion coincided with the well-earned retirement of Mabel Siegle, who had diligently managed the clinic's books since its early days. Then, in 1997, responding to the insightful suggestions of their dedicated staff, CHFA introduced daycare services, and expanded boarding services, solidifying its commitment to comprehensive pet care.
In 2011, to better serve our growing clientele in East Grand Rapids and surrounding areas, Breton Village Animal Clinic was opened. This expansion allowed the practice to provide more accessible care to clients who had been traveling to our Cascade location.
That same year, CHFA added a dedicated administrative office area, and Dr. Greg Paplawsky joined the practice as a partner, further strengthening our team. Building on this growth, 2016 brought the construction of new daycare buildings, enhancing our pet care services. CHFA also demonstrated our commitment to the local community by funding the Cascade Township Dog Park, providing a valuable space for pet owners and their furry friends.
A Family Tradition Continues
The legacy of compassion and dedication continues from second generation, Dr. Richard L. Siegle, who followed in his father's footsteps, and now with his son, Dr. Clayton Siegle, who joined the practice in 2021. “I will never forget the look of pure joy and excitement my grandfather had when I told him I was going to vet school,” Dr. Clayton shares fondly.
"I’m very proud of my son and I know he will carry on the legacy of CHFA very well. I’m very optimistic for him to take over the reins and the practice," says Dr. Richard Siegle.
Innovation and Community Remain at the Heart of CHFA
The journey from a humble farmhouse on a brick road (did you know Cascade Road was a 2-lane brick road and was the main highway to get to Detroit?) to a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital is a story of unwavering community support and steadfast
dedication. What began as a farmhouse, then a 1,000 square foot practice, then expanded to 4,500 square feet, has now blossomed into a sprawling 20,000+ square foot facility equipped with cutting-edge technology and comprehensive services. This growth is a reflection of the trust placed in us by generations of pet owners.
Our expansions are all driven by a singular purpose: to enhance the lives of pets and their families. This commitment to the community extends beyond our walls, fostering a bond built on trust, empathy, and a shared love for animals.
The legacy of CHFA is not just in its buildings or its technology; it's in the countless stories of healing, compassion, and unwavering dedication that have unfolded within its walls. It's in the generations of families who have entrusted us with the care of their beloved pets. It's in the spirit of community that Dr. Dick Siegle instilled from the very beginning, a spirit that continues to guide us as we look towards the future.
2023 and 2024 were times of great enthusiasm with the addition of two new business partners; Dr. Becky Schaffer and Dr. Clayton Siegle.
"CHFA has been blessed by the tremendous support of the community, which we are extremely grateful for. We are committed to continue to provide exceptional medicine with compassionate care for your beloved pet. It’s been a wonderful career,” Dr. Rick Siegle reflects, encapsulating the heart of CHFA’s 70-year journey.
As CHFA celebrates its 70th anniversary, we're not just looking back; we're also looking forward to the opening of our Caledonia Animal Clinic in Fall 2025. This year at Cascade Hospital for Animals, we have also added a larger surgical center, complete with a CT scan, dental suite, and two modern surgery suites, representing our ongoing commitment to providing cutting-edge veterinary care for your beloved pets.
Thank you for being a part of the CHFA family. Here's to many more years of compassion, care, and community!
