An open letter: Dr. Jeff Bids Farewell: Beloved Rocky Mountain Vet Announces Retirement in Emotional Open Letter

For millions of fans worldwide, the name Dr. Jeff has become synonymous with compassion, resilience, and a relentless commitment to saving animals. Through the hit Animal Planet series Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet, audiences came to admire not just a skilled veterinarian, but a man who embodied the spirit of service. Now, after more than four decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Jeff Young has officially announced his retirement in a moving open letter addressed to his staff, loyal clients, and the global community of viewers who followed his journey.

The Open Letter

Released this week on Planned Pethood Plus’ website and social media platforms, Dr. Jeff’s open letter carried the same mix of honesty, humility, and heartfelt passion that has long defined him.

“After more than 40 years of practicing veterinary medicine, the time has come for me to step back,” he began. “This is not a decision I make lightly, but one I feel is right for me, my family, and for the future of this clinic and the people who will carry its mission forward.”

The words immediately struck a chord with fans who have watched him dedicate his life to affordable veterinary care. His letter made it clear that retirement is not a retreat, but a transition into a new role as mentor, advocate, and family man.

A Mission Beyond Medicine

Since founding Planned Pethood Plus in Denver, Colorado, Dr. Jeff has been a champion for accessible veterinary services. Long before reality television captured his work, he became known locally for offering affordable spay and neuter surgeries, traveling to underserved areas, and never turning away a pet in need.

In his letter, Dr. Jeff reflected on that mission.

“I built this practice on the belief that no one should ever have to choose between caring for their animal and paying their bills. Veterinary care should not be a privilege—it should be a right. I am proud to know we’ve stood by that belief every day.”

The letter credited his staff, describing them as “the beating heart” of Planned Pethood, and praised their dedication to animals and families alike. He specifically highlighted his daughter, Dr. Melody, who has increasingly taken on leadership duties at the clinic.

From Denver to the World

Dr. Jeff’s story reached a global audience in 2015 with the premiere of Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet on Animal Planet. The series quickly became a fan favorite, offering an unfiltered look at the challenges and triumphs of his fast-paced clinic. From emergency surgeries to heartwarming rescues, viewers saw firsthand his blunt honesty, tireless work ethic, and unwavering compassion.

In his open letter, Dr. Jeff addressed fans directly.

“To those who welcomed me into your living rooms through the show—you gave me strength. Every message of support, every story of how you adopted a rescue or chose to volunteer because of what you saw, reminded me why this work matters. You’ve been part of this mission as much as I have.”

A Personal Turning Point

The decision to retire comes after years of health challenges for Dr. Jeff, including his battle with cancer—a journey he has been candid about. While he continued to work during treatment, he admitted in his letter that those experiences shifted his priorities.

“Facing my own health struggles taught me that time is precious. It reminded me that while I’ve devoted my life to animals, I must also devote time to my family, my health, and to living the moments I’ve too often postponed. Retirement allows me to do just that.”

Gratitude at the Core

Above all, the open letter was a message of gratitude.

“To every animal who crossed my path—you have been my greatest teachers. To every client who trusted me with their beloved companion, thank you for allowing me the honor of caring for your family. To my colleagues and staff, you are the reason this clinic will thrive long after I hang up my stethoscope.”

Dr. Jeff expressed confidence that the mission of Planned Pethood will live on, sustained by the team he built and the values they all share.

Reactions Pour In

News of his retirement has already prompted an outpouring of emotion from fans and fellow professionals. Social media has been flooded with tributes, from photos of pets saved by Dr. Jeff’s care to messages from viewers who say his show inspired them to pursue careers in veterinary medicine.

Animal welfare groups also praised his legacy. One Colorado shelter wrote: “Dr. Jeff has saved more lives than we can count. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his work will continue to echo through every animal he inspired us to save.”

Looking Forward

While stepping away from the operating table, Dr. Jeff made it clear in his letter that he will not disappear. He plans to continue advocating for affordable veterinary care, mentoring young veterinarians, and speaking out on animal welfare issues.

“This is not goodbye,” he wrote in closing. “It is simply a new chapter. Take care of your animals. Take care of each other. That’s all I’ve ever wanted.”

A Legacy That Endures

For fans, Dr. Jeff’s retirement is bittersweet. It signals the end of seeing him in the clinic every day, but it also highlights the lasting legacy of a man who redefined what it means to be a veterinarian. His open letter was more than an announcement—it was a love letter to the animals, people, and mission that defined his life’s work.

As he steps into retirement, one thing is certain: Dr. Jeff’s influence will endure in every pet rescued, every young vet inspired, and every act of compassion sparked by his example.