Almost thirty, Clay Williams naively believed his future as a racetrack veterinarian was firmly in place. Then the harsh reality of life on the track ends his career and sends him to the high country of Colorado. His education continues thanks to the colorful characters that populate Steamboat Springs in the 1970's: ranchers and realtors, plumbers and police all offer training to the young doctor. Clay's first year is transformed by the lessons learned from both the clients and patients of Routt County.