03/10/2026
I apologize for my tardiness in this announcement, but for those of you who know me, you know what I lack in timeliness I make up for in enthusiasm!
I am very proud to announce Classic Equine’s successful merge with Equine Medical last week.
Equine Medical was started by Dr Jeff Bunn and Dr Stephanie Rubie in 1995 in response to the growing need for equine hospitals in West Michigan. Their passion for veterinary medicine led them to grow and become a successful business with loyal customers and exceptional employees. Dr Rubie’s impending retirement from veterinary medicine encouraged Dr Bunn to start contemplating the future of Equine Medical.
Classic Equine was founded by Dr Kirk Johnson upon graduation from veterinary school in 2011, and through sheer grit, determination, and (sugar-free) Red Bull, he has built a thriving equine practice that services many wonderful clients and patients in West Michigan (and now Northern Michigan – shout out to those great Up North clients). Continued growth of Classic Equine motivated Dr Johnson to make some decisions for the future of Classic Equine.
As I recommend all mergers should go, plans were discussed in a local restaurant over a hearty lunch. After everything seemed to fall into place, we knew this was the beneficial choice for all parties involved.
To the Classic Equine Clients – We appreciate your understanding and patience as we make some changes (especially as we are transitioning between offices). These updates are to better serve you and your horses, and there are so many wonderful new projects in the works! Please give Dr Bunn and his team a warm welcome.
To the Equine Medical Clients – We will strive to make this transition as seamless as possible. We are excited for you to meet our team, and we know we have big shoes to fill. Dr Bunn will still be servicing his clients but hopefully be able to step back his on-call schedule, which is where our team is happy to fill in the gaps.
To Jeff and Linne – We thank you for giving us this opportunity to merge and grow. I love that this relationship started 20-some years ago when Kirk was just a student on Dr Bunn’s truck. There are so many more things we look forward to learning from you, and we hope to continue the exemplary care to your clients and patients that you have shown for the last 31 years.
And finally to my Husband – I cannot be more proud of the veterinarian and business owner that you have become. With all of the hard work and dedication you have poured into this practice, you have made your dreams into reality. While I might be biased, I truly believe that hands-down, the Michigan horses are more sound now that you’re around 😉
For those of you who have made it this far, please join me in congratulating both of these wonderful veterinarians. West Michigan is lucky to have you guys! 🐴❤️
- Katie Johnson
