Scott Anderson, DVM

Legendary Veterinarian, Dr. Scott Anderson, passed away on July 29, 2025, embarking on his next great adventure.

Affectionately known as "Scotty," he was born on March 21, 1945, in Columbus, Ohio, and lived an extraordinary life.

A gifted athlete and sports fan, Scott was a star baseball pitcher in his youth, famously throwing four consecutive no-hitters. He was recruited to pitch for Ohio State University, and was a member of their NCAA championship teams in 1965-66. He coached little league baseball, including the notoriously undefeated team called the "Bears." Scott was often called, "Mr.Enthusiasm."

While at Ohio State, Scott earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, joined the U.S. Army, and married the love of his life, Diana Schwenker-a wedding so memorable it even drew the Governor of Ohio. After graduation, Scott was stationed at Walter Reed Hospital, where he was involved in groundbreaking malaria research to protect our troops in Vietnam and influenced modern medicine. During the Nixon Administration, Scott served as the White House veterinarian while at Walter Reed. His deep empathy for animals became apparent early on-even "homeschooling" a baby chimpanzee affectionately named "The Kid."

In the early 1970s, Scott and Diana moved to San Francisco, determined to build the American dream while making a difference. Together, they purchased Avenues Pet Hospital, where they devoted their lives to helping animals and the people who loved them, often providing care regardless of financial means.

Recognizing the plight of abandoned animals, Scott also helped co-found San Francisco's Animal Care and Control with Carl Friedman, giving countless pets a second chance at life. His commitment to service and compassion made him a beloved community leader.

For more than 20 years, Scott served on UCSF Medicine's IACUC board, the ethical use of animals in medical research, and never hesitated to shut down any research that compromised animals quality of life. He was also frequently called upon by the San Francisco Zoo to help with the "big cats." His dedication left an enduring impact on veterinary medicine, animal welfare, and the city he loved.

Scott's passions extended far beyond his work. An athlete his entire life, he remained active until the very end-just one week before his passing, he played a round of golf at his beloved California Golf Club of San Francisco ("Cal Club"), where he cherished his friendships. He was also an avid runner, tennis player, ocean swimmer, and lifelong member of the Dolphin Club, swimming over 100 miles annually in the chilly waters of San Francisco Bay. For Scott, these pursuits were less about competition and more about camaraderie, adventure, and laughter.

Hawaii held a special place in his heart, particularly Kona Village, where he forged some of his most treasured friendships. After the first backpacking trip, Scott fully embraced the island spirit-donning Hawaiian shirts daily and adorning his clinic's waiting room with a mural of Kauai's coastline. He loved long swims in Hawaiian waters and, above all, being head over heels in love with Diana, his best friend and loyal partner throughout life.

Scott is survived by Diana, their children Kitty (Dr. Brandy,) and Oliver (Olivia), and four grandchildren: Knox, Saint-Charles, Holiday, and Malibu.

He will be remembered as a legendary father, a pillar of the San Francisco community, and a man who cared deeply for animals and the people who loved them. His legacy lives on through every life he touched-human and animal alike. Scott made frequent visits to many SF neighborhoods to treat seniors animals, vaccinate homeless cats with his young family carrying the supplies and acting as helpers to catch and hold animals.

Scott was "the best." To honor his memory in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Scott Anderson Memorial Fund for Compassionate Care of Animals via his GoFundMe page:

gofundme.com/f/scott-andersondvm-memorial-fund-for-animals.

All funds will help pet owners and caretakers who are struggling financially, ensuring animals receive the care and love they deserve.

Aloha Scotty. We will miss your energy. You were an American Hero. An amazing Dad and husband. Thank you for your service. Thank you for your leadership. Your death was too soon. We love you.