Local Business Spotlight: Cedar Grove Veterinary Clinic
For nearly a decade, Cedar Grove Veterinary Clinic has provided care for dogs, cats, lizards, guinea pigs, and other unique pets in Grand Marais.
The clinic, owned by Dr. Nadder Samari, DVM, and his wife, Lee, began in 2017 and has been a staple in the small town since opening.
“We fell in love with the community and Grand Marais, and we always thought about the possibility of having a clinic here,” Samari said.
Over the years, the business has grown and expanded, adding new staff and services, and taking on new clients.
Dr. Nadder Samari with a new client | Contributed by Cedar Grove Veterinary Clinic
Most recently, the clinic added another diagnostic machine that allows staff to measure white blood cell counts and other blood parameters, improving care efficiency. The clinic also added an ultrasound machine to the medical arsenal, and Samari said he hopes to provide that service more frequently in the near future.
Another change expected in 2026 is the addition of a new veterinarian. A recent University of Minnesota graduate is expected to join the team later this year, providing additional support to Samari and his staff.
The availability of veterinary care in Grand Marais has changed in recent months. In September, the Lake County Veterinary Clinic closed its Grand Marais location, leaving Cedar Grove Veterinary Clinic as the sole provider in the county. Since the closure, Samari said he has “seen an increase in people who need care, and they’re not able to drive to Two Harbors.”
As veterinary care options in Grand Marais have shifted, Cedar Grove Veterinary Clinic has taken on a larger role in the community. Earlier this fall, the clinic was named the 2025 Chamber Business of the Year at the Cook County Chamber of Commerce’s Oct. 30 Fall Gala.
“It was a very humbling experience,” Samari said. “Lee and I almost were in tears, and we realized how much the community appreciates us. And we are so humbled and so delighted that we did receive that award.”
Dr. Nadder Samari with Chamber of Commerce representatives, Linda Jurek and Chris Homyak during the Fall Gala
WTIP’s Kalli Hawkins spoke with Dr. Nadder Samari, owner of Cedar Grove Veterinary Clinic, for the latest edition of the Local Business Spotlight. Audio of the interview is below.
The Local Business Spotlight highlights our local business community’s economic strength and innovation. This feature is brought to you in partnership with Visit Cook County and the Cook County Chamber of Commerce.
Kalli Hawkins January 7, 2026
