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 travelling, trail running, and skiing. She is usually accompanied by her dogs.
Dr. Steve Fairchild graduated from Washington State University’s Veterinary School in 1979, and joined Blackfoot’s Animal Health Clinic, where he became a partner from 1980-1985. He later opened the Idaho Falls Animal Medical Center and practiced there from 1985-1988. In 1986, he founded Alta Animal Hospital, where Dr. Eric Krasa joined him in 1988. When Dr. Krasa retired in 1998, Dr. Fairchild became the sole owner. In 2000, he designed and built Alta’s new building, the location it enjoys today. In 2004, Dr. Fairchild sold the practice to National Veterinary Associates, Inc., but continued as managing veterinarian until handing over the reins to Dr. Nickisch in 2007. Dr. Fairchild and his wife Marie have two children and one grandchild. He enjoys fishing, whitewater rafting, wine vintage, and spending time with friends and family.
 Dr. Brian Risa is a 1980 graduate of Washington State University’s Veterinary School. He practiced initially four years in Montana and then 24 years in Blackfoot. Dr. Risa’s 29 years of veterinary experience include small animal medicine as well as soft tissue and orthopedic surgery. He sold his interest in the Blackfoot Animal Clinic in 2007 to pursue small animal practice exclusively, joining the doctors at Alta Animal Hospital in October of 2008. Born and raised on a farm in Montana, Dr. Risa has always had a love of animals and the outdoors. Dr. Risa and his wife Diana have two grown children, both married, and four grandchildren. His interests include camping, hunting, and horse backcountry packing. Dr. Risa is looking forward to serving you and your pet’s needs.
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