A longtime Springfield veterinary practice has new ownership as of May 1.
Dr. Joan Saner Reeder, who has worked at Coble Animal Hospital for 23 years, purchased the practice from Dr. Frank Coble. His father, Dr. Porter Coble, founded the vet clinic in 1941.
“Frank was my mentor for many years, so I’m very excited to have this happen,” said Saner Reeder.
The practice previously operated at two separate locations, 2828 S. MacArthur Boulevard and 2525 E. Sangamon Ave. In July 2023, both offices were consolidated into the Sangamon Avenue location, which Saner Reeder described as a “much nicer, newer facility.”
“As more Springfield veterinary clinics are gobbled up by large, out-of-state corporations, I’m bucking the trend and keeping our practice locally owned,” said Saner Reeder. “I became a veterinarian because I love animals. I purchased Coble Animal Hospital because I love Springfield and believe in its future.”
Saner Reeder is a Sangamon County native who graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine and then returned to the Springfield area to practice.
She said in honor of the Cobles’ legacy, the veterinary clinic will keep the same name. No major changes are in store, although Saner Reeder noted the facility has recently doubled the number of boarding spots available.
“We can send video clips daily to the owners so they can see their dogs being played with by the staff,” said Saner Reeder. “We even have luxury boarding suites that are more like hotel rooms with beds and decorated with different themes. They’re very popular with the clients.”
There are three veterinarians currently on staff, and Saner Reeder hopes to expand that number, as well as the customer base.
“We’re seeking people to come give us a try,” she said. “Frank Coble was my mentor and a veterinarian who I worked with for more than two decades. I’m honored to carry on his legacy.”
