The Alta Animal Hospital team of skilled veterinarians welcomes you to our practice. Proudly serving the Pocatello area. At Alta Animal Hospital, it is our daily privilege to provide quality vet care to your cherished pet, with compassion and competence. We hope to ensure a positive impact on our patients, pet owners and the local community.

Dr. Kirsten Nickisch, DVM
Dr. Kirsten Nickisch obtained her B.S. degree (ФBK) from Colorado State University in Fort Collins, having also studied at ITESM in Monterrey, Mexico. She earned her veterinary degree from CSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 2001. Returning to Pocatello, she joined Dr. Fairchild at Alta Animal Hospital and has practiced there since. Her special interests are in soft tissue surgery, opthalmology, and dentistry. In July 2007, Dr. Nickisch became the managing veterinarian at Alta and is committed to a longstanding tradition of quality patient care. She enjoys traveling, trail running, and skiing. She is usually accompanied by her dog.

Dr. Sheena Haney
Dr. Haney obtained a B.S. in Animal Science from Oregon State University in Corvallis in 2005. She then moved to southern California to earn her veterinary degree from Western University of Health Sciences in May of 2010. Dr. Haney joined Alta Animal Hospital in July 2010. She enjoys working with dogs and cats, as well as ferrets, guinea pigs, and other pocket pets. Her special interests include dentistry and dermatology. She enjoys camping and hiking with her husband and their dog, reading, and cooking. Dr. Haney has enjoyed getting to know the community and is happy to call Pocatello home.

Dr. Steve Fairchild (Retired)
After a 30 year career of veterinary practice, I am now thoroughly enjoying my retirement. I cannot thank you enough for your support of the practice and faith in my care throughout the years. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of working with many veterinarians. Two of the best are now practicing at Alta Animal Hospital. Dr. Kirsten Nickisch has been my partner at the practice for over 10 years. She mentored with me during that time, and I now know that I’ve left the clinic in the hands of someone who wants the same thing for my clients and patients as I did. Dr. Sheena Haney is an outstanding veterinarian who I helped interview and select as the right match for the clinic. She has the kindest manner with both people and animals. I was thrilled to watch her work before my retirement, knowing she would carry on the practice of quality medicine and compassionate care at Alta that we as a team have always strived for. Thank you again for your patronage over the years. Pocatello has been very good to my family and the practice. I hope you’ll continue to benefit from the legacy I have left at the practice that meant so much to me.
Mon-Sun 6:00pm - 8:00am