Melba Neubarth and her family have been clients of Four Corners Veterinary Hospital since our opening in 1956. We honor Melba's life as we have known her for the past 25 years, and as she knew our hospital for the past 53 years.

 Melba always had a large heart for animals. Ever since her daughter, Jean, can remember, they have had dogs, cats, and parakeets in their home. For many years, Melba raised parakeets and placed them in the community. She was a good listener as well as a loving, caring, and compassionate woman. She always encouraged her children to follow their dreams and do their best. She taught her daughters to love animals and to share their lives with others.

 In the summer of 1956, the Neubarths rescued a cocker Spaniel named Smokey from a ranch in Northern California. On a trip that fall, Smokey got into tar weed, which painfully tangled his hair, especially around his ears. The day after they returned was a Sunday, and when Mr. Neubarth tried to locate a veterinarian to treat Smokey, he was unable to find anyone. One veterinarian mentioned that Dr. Proctor was opening up a new facility, called Four Corners Veterinary Hospital. Mr. Neubarth loaded Smokey into the car and went down to the new office. Dr. Proctor and his wife were there, preparing the hospital for opening day the following morning. Even though the hospital was not officially open yet, Dr. Proctor told the Neubarths that he would take care of Smokey for them that day. In the process of cleaning Smokey’s hair, Dr. Proctor discovered that his ears were full of foxtails, and requested that Smokey come back the following day for ear cleaning under sedation. Smokey came back to Four Corners the next day, and went home with clean ears taped onto the top of his head! The Neubarths have been dedicated clients of Four Corners Veterinary Hospital ever since. 

 Melba was a wonderful person and a beloved client who has now crossed the “Rainbow Bridge,” where she will once again be with all her pets who have preceded her. Melba is survived by her daughters Jean and Judy, granddaughter Cathleen, and their Springer Spaniel Barnaby.