(605) 271-3442

info@upleash.com

208 W. 37th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57105

About Upleash

Providing specialty-level individualized care to pets in the Sioux Falls region.

We blend advanced veterinary medicine with compassionate, relationship-focused care, as a locally owned veterinary hospital built to serve Sioux Falls and the tri-state area.

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A veterinarian wearing gloves giving a vaccination to a cat in a clinic setting.
A veterinarian wearing gloves giving a vaccination to a cat in a clinic setting.
Our Story

Built on Experience. Inspired by Compassion.

Meet our team

Upleash began as an idea nearly a decade ago — a vision for something more meaningful in veterinary medicine. After years of watching the profession shift toward volume and away from connection, Dr. Joe Spoo set out to create a different kind of clinic: one where advanced medical capability and genuine compassion coexist. As the sole owner, he leads a team dedicated to transparency, communication, and specialty-informed care. Upleash is locally owned, relationship-centered, and built for Sioux Falls.

Early 1980s
Joey decides he wants to be a veterinarian when he grows up, sparked by an early love of animals and the outdoors.
Reading Jim Kjelgaard’s Big Red series and Where the Red Fern Grows ignites a lifelong passion for hunting dogs and working breeds.
Late 1980s
1995
Joe begins his undergraduate studies at Iowa State University, building the academic foundation for his veterinary career.
Joe enters Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, taking the next major step toward becoming a veterinarian.
1997
2001
Dr. Spoo begins his career at Lakeland Veterinary Hospital in Brainerd, MN, and launches Gundogdoc.com to share his passion for hunting dog care.
Joe moves to Sioux Falls, SD, beginning a long-standing connection to the community he will one day serve through Upleash.
2003
2012
Dr. Spoo and Dr. Hardy meet while completing certification through the Canine Rehabilitation Institute, starting years of collaboration.
Dr. Hardy becomes a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, demonstrating advanced training and clinical excellence.
2012
2013
Dr. Hardy moves to Sioux Falls, bringing her expertise in advanced complex cases and diagnostic ultrasound to the region.
Dr. Spoo becomes a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, deepening his work with performance dogs.
2015
2020
The profession shifts, reinforcing Joe’s belief that veterinary medicine needs to return to relationship-based, locally owned care.
Planning begins for Upleash Veterinary Hospital—a clinic dedicated to pairing exceptional medicine with genuine compassion.
2025
2026
Upleash Veterinary Hospital opens its doors, bringing specialty-level care and a relationship-first philosophy to Sioux Falls.
Why Trust Us

Expert Care You Can Trust

We pair specialty-level medicine with compassion, communication, and real relationships.

Advanced Diagnostics

Slice-based CT, digital radiology, and advanced ultrasound improve accuracy and treatment outcomes.

Specialty-Level Expertise

Specialty-trained doctors are available every day, with a visiting board-certified surgeon for complex surgical procedures.

Relationship-Focused Care

We take time to listen, explain, and collaborate so you feel confident in every decision.

Locally Owned

Independent, community-rooted care with no corporate influence on medical decisions.

Compassion at Our Core

Your pet’s comfort and your peace of mind guide everything we do.

Clear Communication

You’ll always know what we’re doing, why we’re doing it, and what to expect next.

“Testimonials, as authentic endorsements from satisfied customers, serve as potent social proof, significantly inspiring trust in potential consumers.”

Customer Name
Our Team

Meet the People Behind Upleash

Our team combines advanced medical expertise with genuine compassion. We’re here to provide exceptional care while building lasting relationships with pets and the people who love them.


Joe Spoo DVM, DACVSMR (canine)

Owner & Founder — Upleash Veterinary Hospital

Dr. Joe Spoo brings a problem-solving approach to veterinary medicine, with special interest in complex diagnoses, mobility issues, and long-term health. He believes the best care comes from taking the time to listen, to both pets and the people who love them.

About Dr. Joe

Krista Hardy DVM, DABVP (canine/feline)

Associate Veterinarian — Upleash Veterinary Hospital

Dr. Krista Hardy brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to veterinary medicine, with specialty-level care. She is especially passionate about helping pets with complex or chronic conditions and believes that careful evaluation and clear communication are essential to great care. Dr. Hardy values building trust with families and taking the time to guide them through each step of their pet’s medical journey.

About Dr. Krista

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    Pet Owner Resources

    Trusted Guidance for Every Step

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    At Upleash, education is part of our commitment to providing exceptional care. Our resources help pet owners feel confident and informed with clear, practical guidance from veterinarians who understand both the medical and emotional sides of pet care.

    Contact Us

    (605) 271-3442

    info@upleash.com

    208 W. 37th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57105

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    Urgent/Critical Care
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    Cardiology
    Oncology
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