Dr. Jeff Young, the beloved veterinarian and star of Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet, is once again proving that his heart beats strongest for animals in need. Now in 2025, Dr. Jeff is not slowing down—instead, he’s taking his life’s work to the next level with a new, visionary project that could change the way animal shelters operate across the country.
For decades, Dr. Jeff has stood at the frontline of veterinary care, not only treating animals but also fighting for the right of all people—regardless of income—to have access to affordable and quality treatment for their pets. His mission is global, his passion is personal, and his approach is always grounded in compassion over profit. In recent years, he’s expanded his efforts beyond the walls of his clinic, launching spay-neuter initiatives in underserved regions, offering veterinary services in countries like Mexico and India, and becoming a voice for both pets and people who are often ignored.
But in 2025, he’s focusing on something closer to home—literally.
Recovering from Illness Again: Road to Recovery
Dr. Jeff Young has faced more than his share of battles—not just in the clinic, but in his personal life too. In 2016, he was diagnosed with a life-threatening form of Cncer, a shock to both his family and fans. He underwent aggressive treatment, including chemotherapy and surgery, all while continuing to care for animals and run his clinic.
For years, he remained in remission, but in 2023, the Cncer returned, sparking widespread concern and even false rumors of his death online. However, true to his resilient spirit, Dr. Jeff confronted the disease head-on once again. With the same grit and determination he brings to his veterinary work, he underwent another round of treatment and emerged victorious, proving not only his strength but also his unwavering commitment to life, purpose, and the animals he loves.
The New Chapter: Merging Two Missions Under One Roof
In 2023, Dr. Jeff relocated his iconic Planned Pethood International (PPI) clinic from Wheat Ridge to Conifer, Colorado. Around the same time, a local animal shelter, Intermountain Humane Society (IMHS), was on the brink of collapse. Facing financial difficulties, IMHS was about to close permanently—until Dr. Jeff stepped in. Without hesitation, he integrated IMHS into PPI, ensuring that the shelter’s mission would survive and thrive.
Since then, the two nonprofits have operated as one united force for animal welfare. But the journey wasn’t over. The original IMHS facility in Pine, Colorado had aged poorly and became too expensive to maintain. In December 2024, it was officially closed. And that’s where Dr. Jeff’s new dream began: building a state-of-the-art shelter on the same site as his current PPI clinic on U.S. Highway 285 in Conifer.
This shelter won’t just be another temporary stop for rescued pets—it’s designed to be a model for future shelters nationwide.
The Vision: A Shelter Like No Other
The planned IMHS shelter is unlike anything the region has seen before. It will feature heated floors, indoor/outdoor dog runs, and a bright, spacious cattery complete with an enclosed “catio” that allows feline residents to enjoy fresh air and sunshine during Colorado’s warm months. Every inch of the new facility has been designed with comfort, care, and healing in mind.
What sets this project apart is Dr. Jeff’s belief that every shelter should have direct access to full-service veterinary care. By merging IMHS and PPI physically and organizationally, he’s creating a seamless experience for both the animals and the people who care for them. It’s a forward-thinking solution to an issue many shelters face—limited access to affordable veterinary services.
Dr. Jeff isn’t just building a shelter—he’s building a blueprint for sustainable animal rescue that integrates medical treatment, emotional support, and community outreach under one roof.
The Fundraising Effort: A Call to Action
To bring this dream to life, Dr. Jeff launched a GoFundMe campaign on April 4, 2025. His goal is $300,000, and as of mid-April, $32,000 has already been raised. While the sale of the old IMHS property will cover a significant portion of the construction costs, donations are essential to finish the project in 2025.
Every dollar raised will go directly toward building the new Intermountain Humane shelter. Dr. Jeff is calling on fans, supporters, and fellow animal lovers to step up and be part of something bigger than any single TV show or clinic visit—a lasting legacy for animals in need.
Tails of Triumph Gala: A Night of Celebration and Commitment
This vision was also a central focus of the Tails of Triumph Gala held on June 28, 2025, at the Barn in Evergreen Memorial Park. The event brought together local veterinarians, volunteers, donors, and fans to celebrate Dr. Jeff’s mission and raise funds for the new shelter.
Speaking at the gala, Dr. Jeff didn’t hold back. “The No. 1 cause of companion animal death is euthanasia,” he said, “and I call it economic euthanasia. Animals are being put down simply because people can’t afford care. That’s not right.”
He emphasized the importance of supporting vulnerable groups—single mothers, the elderly, and veterans—who may struggle to pay for pet care but benefit immensely from the companionship animals provide. “We must not lose sight of our humanity in the face of greed,” he said. “It’s about respect for the animals and the people who love them.”
Global veterinarians who’ve worked with Dr. Jeff, including those from Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, spoke about how his spay-neuter clinics have changed entire communities. They painted a clear picture: before Dr. Jeff, skepticism and resistance; after Dr. Jeff, compassion and hope.
A Legacy in the Making
Dr. Jeff’s mission has never been just about medicine—it’s about changing lives. From preventing needless euthanasia to transforming shelters into havens of care, his work is reshaping how society treats its most voiceless members.
“I want to leave PPI in a position that it’ll flourish long after I’m gone,” he said.
And if the current momentum continues, that legacy seems well within reach. With the new facility, Dr. Jeff is doing more than building walls and kennels—he’s building a future where no animal is denied love, safety, or medical help just because of a price tag.
As the campaign unfolds, Dr. Jeff’s message remains clear: this isn’t just his project—it’s a collective mission. And with support from the community, it’s one that will lead to more lives saved, more homes found, and a much kinder tomorrow.
If you’d like to support Dr. Jeff’s mission, you can donate to the GoFundMe campaign and become part of a story that’s changing the future of animal rescue—one paw at a time.
While revealing new project, Dr. Jeff also made a new revelation about his previous staff Hector Martinez, according to Dr. Jeff, Martinez is now working in a home remodeling business.
my dog has constant utis. my vet cannot get her over them. i think they are only out for money. i am 80 yrs. old and on social security . can you tell me something i can do to help my dog. she is constantly licking her vulva. just wish i was closer to you so you could treat her . thank you so much.. you are the best .