Who we are

Biography, Brian V. Ortman, DVM, MHP, Diplomate ACVPM

My life growing up was on a diverse IN farm with pets and livestock. Some of these four-legged family members we raised from birth, while others were adopted. I’ve nurtured and loved many pets.

My childhood led to being a veterinarian. Our pet’s lifespan may be short, their unconditional love and companionship make them just as much a part of our family as the rest of the household. This bond overwhelms our hearts with joy, while also creating one of the toughest challenges when it comes time to say ‘good-bye,’ emphasizing why the end-stage of life deserves special attention and care.

After graduating from the Purdue School of Veterinary Medicine, and marrying Cindy, we moved back to my hometown where I practiced both large and small animal veterinary medicine, and Cindy was a hospital pharmacist. That led to practice co-ownership and President of Ortman Farms Inc, a corn-soybean and swine enterprise. After 10 years, we sold the practice, kept the farm and I joined the USAF as a public health officer. We only live once so traveling the world and patriotism lured me into a second career. 24 years of enriching service later we both retired, eventually to SC, and I went back to part-time companion vet practice, humane society involvement and continuing over 40 years of IN farm management that keeps me grounded to my roots.

In free time, Cindy and I enjoy visiting our 2 daughters, boating, water sports, gardening, fishing, hiking, reading, traveling and American Legion community service.

I recognize an expanded need for affordable top-notch end-of-life pet care in the Columbia, SC area. My goal is to assist families and their beloved pets through this difficult and emotional experience with peace and dignity.

Dr. Ortman

Biography, Eric R. O’Dell, SCFD

Eric, a Licensed SC Funeral Director, and Cayce native, left funeral service after a nearly 35-year career. In 2020 decided he needed a change of pace and began working with Columbia Pet Cremation Center. His compassion and love of animals helped him to grow the business exponentially. That passion for animals and caring for them in their final days convinced Eric that an affordable option to euthanasia was needed in the Midlands of South Carolina. “Our pets do not like to go to the vet on their best day, much less their last” so he decided to offer an affordable option in a facility that was peaceful, comfortable, and without the day-to-day chaos of a typical veterinarian’s office.

Eric has an immeasurable amount of knowledge about funeral service and can assist any family with final disposition options. Be it cremation or traditional ground burial Eric and the staff at Columbia Pet Cremation Center will see that your beloved pet is cared for with dignity, respect, and tender hands. You may reach Eric by calling our office or emailing him at... Eric@ColumbiaPetEuthanasiaServices.com

Eric R. O'Dell

Custom care
for every pet

If you decide to schedule a euthanasia appointment for your pet, know that we will do all we can to minimize your pet’s stress and keep them comfortable. We Have a covered table or floor level comfort depending on you and your pet’s needs. We give you and your family the privacy and time you need to say goodbye to your loved one.

For the euthanasia procedure, first we administer sedation to help your pet fall into a relaxing sleep. Once they are asleep and you give us permission, we will administer euthanasia, which acts quickly. Your pet will not feel any stress or pain.