Edie Best
Owner, Veterinarian and Medical Director
DVM, ABVP, cVMA
Dr. Edie Best has been caring for pets and the people who love them for nearly three decades. A proud eastern Montana native, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Montana State University in Bozeman in 1991 and went on to receive her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, graduating cum laude from Colorado State University in 1995.
Since joining Billings Animal Family Hospital in 1997, Dr. Best has built her career around one guiding principle: honoring the human-animal bond. She believes exceptional veterinary medicine begins with listening, clear communication, and developing meaningful relationships with clients and their pets. In 2008, she purchased Billings Animal Family Hospital and remains passionate about preserving its independence and locally owned roots.
Dr. Best is a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in Canine and Feline Practice, a distinction that recognizes advanced expertise in companion animal medicine. She successfully completed recertification in both 2013 and 2023 and is currently the only board-certified veterinary specialist in Billings.
Committed to offering a wide range of treatment options for her patients, Dr. Best became a Certified Veterinary Medical Acupuncturist (cVMA) in 2017. She incorporates acupuncture into her practice to help pets experiencing pain, arthritis, mobility challenges, and neurologic disorders, often providing additional comfort and improved quality of life as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
In February 2026, Dr. Best fulfilled a long-held dream when the hospital moved into a newly constructed 7,000-square-foot facility that she personally designed. Created with both comfort and efficiency in mind, the hospital offers a welcoming, spa-like atmosphere for pets and their families. The exam rooms are dedicated to her beloved pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge, serving as a daily reminder of the profound bonds that inspire her work every day.
At home, Dr. Best shares her life with four cats, two senior horses, and Merle, her Australian Cattle Dog and the beloved mascot of Billings Animal Family Hospital. Visitors may recognize Merle from the portrait that greets clients in the vestibule of the new hospital. Much of Dr. Best's free time is spent pursuing her latest challenge: convincing Merle that he was destined to become a water sports dog. When she's not at the hospital, Dr. Best enjoys traveling, hiking, camping, and spending time with family and friends. She has been happily married to her husband, Les, for more than 30 years and looks forward to continuing to care for the pets of Billings for many years to come.
"It is a privilege to be trusted with the care of your pets. As long as my clients continue to need me, I look forward to serving our community and strengthening the bond between people and the animals they love."
Dr. Edie Best
In the News
Dr. Edie Best is committed to educating pet owners both in the exam room and throughout the Billings community. She has been featured by local news outlets as a trusted veterinary expert on topics including rabies prevention, pet safety, and preventive care.
Yellowstone County Reports Confirmed Rabies Case
KTVQ News | July 2026
Following a confirmed rabies case in Yellowstone County, Dr. Edie Best shared expert guidance with KTVQ News on the importance of keeping pets up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
Losing a Pet Brings Deep Grief, but a Billings Vet Clinic Offers Healing
KTVQ News | April 2025
Dr. Edie Best as she discussed the emotional impact of losing a beloved pet and the importance of supporting families through every stage of their pet's life.
Client Testimonial
"We have been coming to Dr. Best and her crew for many years. We have had dogs and cats over the years, and she is THE BEST! She cares about animals and people, and is such a good person. She is always there with you from beginning to end."
Cheryl W.