From the Archives - March 11, 2021
George Causton, knowing there was no veterinarian nearby, called the medical physician, Dr. E.E. Fry to come tend to his horse. On March 15, 1917, Dr. Fry wrote the above prescription for that horse.
(Photo courtesy BOUNDARY COUNTY MUSEUM)
In rural areas of Idaho, at the turn of the century, the practical care for domestic animals was given by the farmer. Knowledge and experience was acquired from daily chores and working with his animals. Sometimes the farmer received aid from the local farrier.
When it came to the treatment of ravaging diseases, the state veterinarian appointed by the governor was contacted. This created a delay as the state veterinarian was located in Boise. Dr. G.E. Noble (1906), Dr. H. Arnor (1910), Dr. V.C. White (1915), and Dr. C.A. Bodie (1917) operated offices in Boise.
Governor Moses Alexander appointed Dr. J.W. Powell as state veterinarian in 1915. Dr. Powell chose to have his office in Coeur d’Alene. He traveled to Boundary County when the need arose.
The first veterinarian to open an office in Bonners Ferry was Dr. Weber. He arrived the first of January 1913. Dr. Weber advertised his business, in the Bonners Ferry Herald, for one month. The January winter was too much for him, and he moved to “greener pastures.”
With no veterinarian close at hand, in 1916 Simond’s Drug Store offered the book Dr. Robert’s Practical Home Veterinarian free to all farmers.
George Causton, knowing there was no veterinarian nearby, called the medical physician, Dr. E.E. Fry to come tend to his horse. On March 15, 1917, Dr. Fry wrote a prescription for that horse.
Your Boundary County Historical Society and Museum, 7229 Main, Bonners Ferry, Idaho sponsors this column.
As the museum remains closed, you can visit the website at www.boundarycountymuseum.org or the museum’s Facebook page for historical photos and stories, and to see upcoming events. Or we can be reached at doyouremember@meadowcrk.com or telephone 208-267-7720. Thank you for your continued support!