The organization, Schuylkill Veterinary Hospital, began when Dr. Norman Frank and his wife, Gail, started a pet farm animal practice based at their Pine Grove farm in 1972.  In November 1981, Dr. Frank purchased an existing part time, small animal practice on Second Street in Pottsville.  Then in June 1983, Dr. Sara Thornton joined the practice and the two offices were combined.  Despite several renovations, the hospital outgrew the original building and moved to Route 61 in February 1987, where it is now located.  Dr. Frank left the practice in July 1991.