# Our History

Source: https://www.bluecrossvet.ca/about/history/

# Our History

A legacy of care in Edmonton since 1948

Constructed in 1948, Blue Cross Animal Hospital was the first purpose-built small animal veterinary hospital in Edmonton. Built to the highest standards of its time, the facility included an operating room, X-ray equipment, kennels, and isolation wards, thus setting a new benchmark for small animal care in the city.

Founded by Dr. Alex J. Rattray, the hospital reflected a growing demand for dedicated veterinary services as Edmonton’s population expanded. From its earliest days, Blue Cross was designed to provide comprehensive, professional care in a purpose-built environment.

Operating Room, X-Ray Included in Equipment: newspaper coverage of the hospital opening

The original Blue Cross Animal Hospital, a designated historic resource in Edmonton

The original building at 11051–97 Street NW. Image from [edmonton.ca/historicresources](https://www.edmonton.ca/sites/default/files/public-files/historic-resource-blue-cross-animal-hospital.pdf)

## A Recognized Historic Resource

The two-storey wood frame and stucco building is valued for its distinctive Moderne architectural style, characterized by its central vertical frontispiece, contoured glass block windows, and clean façade design.

In July 2018, the original building at 11051–97 Street NW was formally designated as a Municipal Historic Resource by the City of Edmonton, recognizing its architectural and historical importance within the community. The clinic today is located at 9103–111 Avenue NW.

Visit [edmonton.ca/historicresources](https://www.edmonton.ca/sites/default/files/public-files/historic-resource-blue-cross-animal-hospital.pdf) to learn more.

## Archival Highlights

Early coverage of the hospital’s opening reflects its significance as a new type of veterinary facility in Edmonton.

Swipe to explore the clippings

Operating room scene at Blue Cross Animal Hospital

Small Animal Hospital Provides Full Service for Pets: archival building photograph

Blue Cross Animal Hospital opening announcement

## A Legacy of Care. A Future of Excellence.

As Edmonton’s oldest purpose-built small animal hospital, Blue Cross Animal Hospital carries forward a legacy of thoughtful, comprehensive care. While veterinary medicine continues to evolve, our commitment to high standards, professional integrity, and service to the community remains unchanged.

Today, the clinic enters its next chapter: modernized in facility and equipped for contemporary care, while grounded in the legacy that began in 1948.

Blue Cross Animal Hospital today, at the corner of 111 Avenue in Edmonton

## Clinic contact

Blue Cross Animal Hospital

9103–111 Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta T5B 0C3

Hours: Monday–Sunday, 9 am–5 pm

Phone: [780-424-0025](tel:+17804240025)

Email: [info@bluecrossvet.ca](mailto:info@bluecrossvet.ca)

[Contact and after-hours information](https://www.bluecrossvet.ca/contact/)