Our History

Dr. Frank L. Docton founded Docton Animal Clinic over 60 years ago. He first taught pathology at Ohio State University before coming to Xenia in January of 1952. He began practicing veterinary medicine alongside Dr. William H. Pavey on Country Club Drive. He practiced there for many years before moving the office to its current location off of Old Springfield Pike. Dr. Docton treated the pets as if they were children, often stepping into the waiting room and calling for the "next child, please."

In 1978, Bill Imperial, DVM, graduated from Ohio State University Veterinary School and moved to Xenia, where he began his career working with Doc. "Doc was a great teacher and a lot of fun to work with - never a dull moment," Dr. Bill said of his late employer, "I will always be grateful for Doc sharing his experience within our wonderful career."
In March 1988, Dr. Bill purchased the clinic from Doc, who retired shortly thereafter. Dr. Gretchen Gale also joined the team that November.
In the early 1990s, with the blessings of a growing practice, Dr. Bill remodeled and added to the building. The front addition allowed for a larger reception area, a spacious waiting area, and a restroom was added for the client's comfort. The original building was renovated to allow for an additional exam room, a library, and a laboratory. The rear addition includes the surgery suite, dental suite, treatment area, isolation room, a recovery/boarding area, an employee restroom, and an office.
In 2000, Dr. Bill hired Matt Stonecypher, a new Ohio State graduate. Having ultrasound skills and an emphasis on feline medicine, Dr. Matt added a great deal to the practice.
Several years later in 2006, Dr. Bill hired Dr. Tina Stonecypher, Dr. Matt's wife. Many have asked if it’s difficult working with your spouse, or if Dr. Bill regrets hiring a husband and wife team. Of course, the answer is no! Dr. Matt and Dr. Tina work very well together. They both have admirable skills, and compliment each other's strengths and weaknesses.
Dr. Matt and Dr. Tina had a strong desire to run their own clinic. So, in 2007, Dr. Bill decided to sell Docton to the Stonecyphers. Dr. Bill comments, "After being in practice for almost 30 years, with so many loyal clients and a fantastic staff, you can't sell "your baby" to just anyone. New owners have to take care of all your wonderful clients that have taken care of you. The Stonecyphers have done just that and I am very grateful."
Dr. Matt has an affinity for computer technology, so it wasn't long before he implemented a new computer software. Within the first year of ownership, he installed more computer stations to compliment the new system. He also purchased a digital x-ray system.
In 2012, Drs. Matt and Tina also decided to enhance the quality of our diagnostic equipment by purchasing a new ultrasound machine. They also installed a new computer server to maintain our clinic's computer stations.
In 2014, we upgraded our dental digital x-ray unit and software, as well as upgraded to full digital general x-ray equipment. These upgrades have greatly improved our ability to diagnose and treat a variety of dental and general issues.
Other upgrades include:

Upgraded LED lights in surgery and entrance and exit doors were added in 2015.
A new furnace and air conditioner were installed in 2016.
In 2017 we upgraded our ultrasound
A new dental unit in 2018.
2021: New cabinetry and exam room layout to accomodate the addition of computers.