By Rebecca Castellani
For the Mordaskys, passion for veterinary medicine and the Stafford community go hand in hand, as evidenced by their multi-generational history in the area and recent expansion.
Dr. David Mordasky was born and raised in Stafford. His father, John Mordasky, was a lifelong dairy farmer, a highly respected politician, and a passionate advocate for his community — qualities he proudly passed on to his children. After graduating from Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Mordasky and his wife, Judith Mordasky, founded the Stafford Veterinary Center in 1987.
Dr. Mordasky cared for the animals, and Judith handled the finances, marketing, and general management. Though the practice had humble beginnings (Dr. Mordasky saw his first patients on top of a dresser in a living room), the Mordaskys worked hard to fulfill their big dreams. It didn’t take long for Stafford Veterinary Center to develop a reputation for veterinary excellence, and by 2005, the Mordaskys were able to open a second satellite practice in Willington.
The Mordasky children grew up alongside the veterinary practice, and as adults, they eagerly joined the family business. Andrew Mordasky became a veterinarian in 2021 and now works alongside his father to treat animals big and small. Tori Mordasky Tavenner is the Director of Community Relations at Stafford Veterinary Center, spearheading business development, hiring, and team-building. The eldest daughter, Lorin, is an attorney and plans to take over Judith’s role when she retires.
In addition to being a family business, the Stafford Veterinary Clinic it is committed to helping all animals, regardless of their size or species. Beyond your standard dogs and cats, Stafford Veterinary Center routinely treats reptiles, birds, rabbits, ferrets, hamsters, guinea pigs, gerbils, and other exotic pets like chinchillas and sugar gliders. According to Judith, Dr. David Mordasky once performed a successful amputation on an African tree frog that went on to live a long, happy life! The Stafford Veterinary Center also offers mobile care for large animals like horses, cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, llamas, and alpacas.
Given the breadth and quantity of animals the Stafford Veterinary Center treats, the Mordasky family eventually expanded their facilities. In April 2022, they relocated to the historic Baker’s Furniture building located at 42 West Main Street. The building’s 1800s charm has been preserved — with many of the original doors, molding, and columns being restored or repurposed — though they are eager to remind patients the veterinary services are all cutting-edge. After making do with just 1,100 square feet, the Mordasky family is taking full advantage of the new 18,000-square-foot location, offering a wide range of expanded services, including grooming and puppy classes. A staff of 70+ — including volunteers and externs — ensures the highest quality of animal care. In turn, the Mordaskys say they provide a positive practice culture by promoting a healthy work-life balance and team-oriented outlook.
Reflecting on their decades of service to Stafford's animals, Judith calls the veterinary practice a “love story business.” She passionately describes the privilege of witnessing the human/animal bond daily. With the new location allowing Stafford Veterinary Center to treat even more animals—and the Mordasky children poised to take the reins—the family legacy of exemplary animal care is poised to persist for generations to come.
