09/01/2026
Lone Pine Animal Hospitals in Challis and Arco, ID, Announce Transition in Ownership
Dr. Jeff Bennetts to remain in practice; Dr. Jill Stevenson assumes ownership of both clinics
CHALLIS, Idaho — August 31, 2026— Lone Pine Animal Hospital in Challis and Lone Pine Animal Hospital in Arco today announced a transition in ownership. Jill L. Stevenson, D.V.M., has acquired both veterinary practices from Jeff W. Bennetts, D.V.M..
Dr. Bennetts has cared for companion animals, horses, and livestock in Custer and Butte counties for more than 30 years. Following this transition of ownership to Dr. Stevenson, Dr. Bennetts will continue seeing patients and do what he loves for the people and animals of these areas.
Both clinics remain open at their current locations, under the same names, with the same phone numbers, and offering the same range of care from Drs. Stevenson, Bennetts, and McIntosh. For families and producers nothing changes about where to go or who to call as both veterinary practices will continue to provide a full range of mixed animal veterinary services in the clinic and out on the ranch.
“I’ve spent my career taking care of animals in these valleys, and I care about the people who own them. I have been so fortunate to work as a veterinarian here and to be able to do what I do for so many animals and their people, so many of whom are also my friends” said Dr. Bennetts. “These practices I’ve built are not something to hand off lightly or walk away from. I’m staying on, seeing patients, and working alongside Dr. Stevenson.”
Dr. Stevenson said her first commitment is continuity and accessibility.
“Dr. Bennetts built these practices and provided much needed rural veterinary services for so many years. That history here matters, and I am committed to keeping it going strong,” said Dr. Stevenson. “We’re going to keep the standard of care high and keep the doors open in both Challis and Arco as much as possible — because that’s what this community has come to expect, and it’s what people deserve. Dr. Bennetts and his wife Kathy love their staff, patients, clientele, and the communities that have supported these clinics. I feel strongly that community support is such a vital piece moving forward to allow Dr. Bennetts and I to continue providing exceptional veterinary care. I am truly happy to be here and to be part of this practice and this community !”
Dr. Stevenson holds a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in animal science from the University of Idaho, where her graduate work focused on bovine reproduction. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Washington State University. Dr. Stevenson has called Idaho home for more than twenty years and enjoys working in a true mixed animal practice with the variety and challenges it presents. She and her husband and their three children spend their time off riding horses in the backcountry, camping, and jet boating.
Dr. Stevenson said the Challis practice will continue serving both small and large animals, maintaining ambulatory and farm-call service. The Arco practice will continue to focus on small animal care.
Both clinics will honor existing appointments and treatment plans without interruption, and clients can expect to be greeted and served by the same skilled and compassionate staff members as before at both locations. Clients with questions are encouraged to call their usual clinic number.
The transition takes effect on August 31st.
