Business Details
44 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Partner for Veterinary Care in Auburn, IN
Auburn Hills Animal Hospital has been dedicated to the health and well-being of animals since 1982. Founded by Robert Hargarten in a farmhouse on Indiana Avenue, our practice initially focused on large animal care before evolving into the full-service veterinary facility we are today. Located in Auburn, Indiana, we provide comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care for both small and large animals, with a team of skilled veterinarians and support staff committed to excellence. Our services include preventative health programs, emergency care, advanced diagnostics, and specialized treatments like laser therapy. We emphasize responsible pet ownership and client education, ensuring pet owners are well-informed about their animals' needs. Over the decades, we have expanded our team to include experienced professionals who share our passion for animal health, such as Dr.David Hargarten, Dr. Thomas Hitzeman, and Dr. Therese Shafer, who contribute their expertise to our mission. Our hospital is equipped with modern facilities, including a fully stocked pharmacy and a monitored boarding area designed for safety and comfort. We serve not only Auburn but also surrounding communities, offering compassionate care tailored to each patient. Our commitment to continuous improvement is reflected in our adoption of Fear Free certification and advanced surgical techniques. Whether for routine checkups, critical care, or end-of-life services, we strive to provide a welcoming environment where both pets and their owners feel supported and valued.
Services
Boarding
Dental Care
Emergency Care
Vaccinations
Laser Therapy
Surgery
Preventative Care
Nutritional Counseling
Ultrasounds
Puppy/Kitten Care
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We have 40+ years of experience providing veterinary care in Auburn since 1982.
- Our team includes board-certified veterinarians with expertise in large and small animal care.
- We offer 24/7 emergency services for urgent pet medical needs.
- Our Fear Free certified specialists prioritize minimizing stress for animal patients.
- We provide comprehensive care from wellness exams to advanced surgical procedures.
What people say
Excellent customer service
Individual attention
Wonderful experiences
Great care
Highly-valued patients
Services
Boarding
Our secure boarding facility provides a safe environment for pets when owners are away. While we cannot offer outdoor exercise areas for dogs, our grated indoor spaces are continuously monitored and sanitized to prevent cross-contamination. The facility maintains strict hygiene protocols and constant supervision to ensure animal comfort and safety during their stay.
Laser Therapy
We utilize advanced laser technology to treat pain, inflammation, and soft tissue injuries in pets. This non-invasive treatment option effectively addresses chronic conditions like arthritis while accelerating recovery from surgical procedures. Our veterinary team applies targeted light therapy to stimulate cellular regeneration and improve circulation for both small and large animal patients.
Emergency Care
Critical care services are available outside regular hours through our after-hours emergency hotline. Our experienced veterinarians handle traumatic injuries, poisoning cases, and acute medical crises. The facility maintains essential diagnostic equipment and emergency medications to stabilize patients before daytime specialists can provide advanced treatment.
Large Animal Care
Our practice includes veterinary services for horses, cattle, and other large animals. We offer on-farm visits and clinic-based treatment for equine dentistry, reproductive management, and preventative care programs. The hospital maintains specialized equipment for large animal diagnostics and surgical procedures performed in our dedicated treatment areas.
Surgery
We perform a wide range of surgical procedures from routine spays/neuters to complex orthopedic repairs. Our operating rooms utilize laser scalpels for precise incisions and reduced recovery times. The surgical team specializes in exploratory procedures, palate/nare corrections, and reproductive surgeries while maintaining strict aseptic protocols throughout all operations.
People
Dr. David Hargarten DVM
Veterinarian
Dr. David Hargarten joined the clinic in 2010 after earning his DVM from Purdue University. With family farming roots and decades of experience, he provides expertise in both small and large animal care while continuing his uncle's legacy at Auburn Hills Animal Hospital.
Dr. Thomas Hitzeman DVM
Veterinarian
A native of Auburn, Dr. Hitzeman became the clinic's third veterinarian in 2013 after graduating from Purdue University. He specializes in small animal care and brings extensive experience from years volunteering at the hospital during his education.
Dr. Therese Shafer DVM
Veterinarian
Dr. Shafer completed her veterinary degree at Purdue University while working at the hospital. She specializes in Fear Free certified care and treats both small and large animals, drawing from her diverse background with various animal species.
Dr. Micalah Mitchener DVM
Veterinarian
After completing her clinical year at Purdue University, Dr. Mitchener returned to her hometown to practice. She earned her DVM from St. George's University in 2025 and contributes expertise in modern veterinary techniques from her international education.
Robert Hargarten
Founder
As the original founder, Dr. Hargarten established the practice in 1982 before mentoring future generations. His vision transformed a small farmhouse clinic into the modern facility serving Auburn's animal health needs for over four decades.
Questions
What veterinary services do you offer for small animals?
We provide comprehensive care including wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care, surgical procedures, and emergency treatment for dogs, cats, and small mammals.
Do you treat large farm animals at your facility?
Yes, we offer large animal care services with both on-farm visits and clinic-based treatment options for equine, bovine, and other agricultural animals.
Are your veterinarians available for after-hours emergencies?
Our emergency hotline (260) 925-5339 provides after-hours access to critical care services when the clinic is closed.
Can I board my dog at your facility?
We offer indoor boarding with monitored grated areas for dogs, though we cannot provide outdoor exercise spaces due to facility limitations.
How do I schedule an appointment at Auburn Hills Animal Hospital?
Contact us at (260) 925-5339 during regular business hours Monday-Friday 7:30AM-5:30PM or Saturdays 8:00AM-12:00PM.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, cash, and checks for veterinary services - payment is due at the time of service.
