The expansion of new veterinary health facilities across the country significantly enhances animal care and service accessibility. With more clinics and hospitals available, pet owners can receive timely consultations, preventive care, and emergency services, which contribute to better overall health outcomes for animals. Additionally, health facilities for zoos create more opportunities for specialized treatments, advanced diagnostic services, and cutting-edge medical technologies for exotic animals.

Here are 3 recent clinic and zoo facilities opening across the United States and Canada:

Maritime Veterinary Emergency + Specialty Centre, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

The lobby of Maritime Veterinary Emergency + Specialty Centre in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. (Photo courtesy of Maritime)

Maritime Veterinary Emergency + Specialty Centre recently opened its doors at 39 MicMac Blvd. in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada, located in the Mic Mac Mall complex. The new emergency hospital is 24,000 square feet and led by 4 local veterinarians. This hospital offers 24/7 emergency care, physical rehabilitation, acupuncture, chiropractic care, and exotics medicine, with plans to offer surgery in June and theriogenology in July.

“Our team is extremely proud and excited for the opportunities that our new hospital brings our community,” said Blaise Myette, hospital director at Maritime, in the release.

 “Our hospital will deliver much-needed medical care for pets in the greater Halifax Regional Municipality and beyond.”

The Maritime hospital design features critical care suites, an advanced surgery suite, digital radiology, 9 exam rooms, with an additional “comfort room,” a full in-house laboratory, endoscopy and ultrasound technology, blood bank services, and a rehabilitation suite with an underwater treadmill.

CityVet in Southtown, Texas. (Photo courtesy of CityVet)

CityVet recently opened a new clinic located at 1028 S. Alamo St. in San Antonio, Texas. Located in the historical neighborhood of Southtown, Texas, the CityVet clinic, founded by a veterinarian, offers full-service care for pets, which includes preventative care, diagnostics, surgery, grooming, dental care, and same-day walk-ins. This location also has dedicated exam rooms and waiting areas designed specifically for cats.

Anne Romeo, DVM, graduate of Texas A&M University, will be at the forefront of the clinic. With 9 years of experience in the veterinary profession, Romeo’s experience includes preventative care, veterinary specialties, and educational initiatives that strive to offer inclusive patient care.

 “I am thrilled to partner with CityVet and open a clinic here in my hometown,” said Romeo. “There are currently no veterinary clinics in the Southtown area and members of the community are always looking for exceptional veterinarian care for their furry friends.”

David Boguslawski, CityVet president and CEO commented on Romeo’s partnership with CityVet. "We are thrilled to partner with Dr Romeo on the opening of our 7th clinic in the San Antonio area. Being a native to the area, we feel that she truly understands the community and their needs; and we know that Dr Romeo and her team will provide the highest standard of care for our new neighbors,” he said.

Elmwood Park Zoo Veterinary Health Center in Norristown, Pennsylvania

The Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown, Pennsylvania is completing the new Frank & Paige Engro Veterinary Health Center, set to open June 27, 2024. The health facility will give zoo veterinary professionals the space to provide medical care to the animals, while also allowing the public to get a behind-the-scenes look at how the Elmwood Park Zoo’s veterinary team operates.

“Elmwood Park Zoo’s mission truly comes to life once you step inside our new Welcome Center,” said Al Zone, executive director and CEO, Elmwood Park Zoo, in the release.

 “Every element of our new facility touches on 3 themes – care, conservation, and connection – and those themes are further highlighted through interactive displays and reactive lighting. The new exhibits and access to portions of the health center aim to educate guests about the important role zoos play in protecting and caring for wildlife.”

The facility will be 39,000 sq ft and will include animal exhibits, as well as a welcome center that will host quizzes and games to help educate guests on Elmwood Park Zoo’s animal care and conservation efforts. Additionally, there will be viewing windows to provide guests with insight on how the veterinary staff conducts exams and procedures, as well as prepares diets for its animals on a daily basis.

Maritime Veterinary Emergency + Specialty Centre is now open. News release. Maritime Veterinary Emergency + Specialty Centre. May 8, 2024. Accessed May 20, 2024.

CityVet, a leading network of veterinary-owned practices, will officially open its doors in Southtown on May 13th. News release. CityVet. May 7, 2024. Accessed May 20, 2024.

Elmwood Park Zoo prepares to reveal new industry-leading veterinary health center and welcome center. News release. Elmwood Park Zoo. May 13, 2024. Accessed May 20, 2024. 

https://www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/elmwood-park-zoo-prepares-to-reveal-new-industry-leading-veterinary-health-center-and-welcome-center/

Articles

Take a look at these 3 veterinary centers newly opened or coming soon 

Clinic center: Recent veterinary health facilities opening across North America

Andrew M. Findlaytor, DVM, sat down with dvm360 to give insights into Roo Vets and the rising popularity of relief work

Interview with Andrew M. Findlaytor

 at the Fetch Nashville Conference, Andrew M. Findlaytor, DVM, senior director of veterinary strategy and services for Roo Vets, explains more about himself, what Roo Vets does for the relief veterinarians, and why he believes veterinary professionals shifting to relief work has become so popular over the past 10 years. 

Below is a partial transcript of the video.

Over the last 10 years we've seen quite a bit of growth in the relief world. We've actually seen the number of relief veterinarians double even over the past 5 years. We really feel like relief is getting so popular because it provides veterinarians flexibility to pick where and when they want to work. It provides veterinarians autonomy... Likewise, it gives them access to better pay, flexible schedules, and the ability to really grow and develop their personal skills.

Why is veterinary relief work becoming so popular? 

The growing appeal of relief medicine

The Animal Alerts project has launched a new initiative in Lima, Peru aimed at detecting and warning residents of earthquakes. At the heart of the project— a collaboration of animal care, technology, science, and media industry experts—led by Rachel Grant, behavioral ecologist, and senior lecturer at the London South Bank University in England, is the PetPace smart collar, which is used to monitor dogs’ health.

In real-time, this collar collects and records health data like pulse, temperature, and respiration. The dog’s stress level is then determined relative to the recorded data and AI algorithms. A simultaneous increase in stress levels among dogs throughout Lima could indicate an imminent earthquake.

“It's been shown in many systematic studies that animals often behave differently prior to earthquakes,” Grant said in a news release. “Animal Alerts, with the use of PetPace AI technology, allows us, for the first time, to collect reproducible physiological data in real time which could help with short term earthquake risk forecasting.”

As close human companions with sharp senses, dogs prove to be especially useful models of behavior change in animals prior to seismic activity.1 According to the American Kennel Club, a dog’s nose is at least 100,000 times more sensitive than a human nose, with the smell-processing part of the canine brain being 7 times larger.

 They can also hear high-pitched noises that humans cannot detect.

As a high seismic zone, Peru experiences 90% of global seismic activity because of its position along the Pacific Ring of Fire,

 making the development of a system to alert residents of earthquakes via different media outlets a vital project. “There is an urgent need for innovative approaches to warn the public before an earthquake, especially since Lima's infrastructure is extremely vulnerable to seismic activity. And so, a timely alert from Animal Alerts could help save countless lives,” Carlos G. Brown, geographer, urban planner, and disaster risk management expert of TECHO Peru, said in the press release.

However, Earthquake geologist Wendy Bohon, PhD, was not convinced about the new initiative’s success given the difficulty of predicting earthquakes.

“I have never seen a convincing study that shows that animals can predict earthquakes, or that animals know that an earthquake is going to happen before it happens," said Bohon in an 

She later added, "Sometimes animals might feel the arrival of the waves from far away that are too small for us to feel, and so we don't notice those first small waves arriving...it may seem like the animals are predicting the earthquake, when in reality they're reacting to the first arrivals of the waves that we're just not tuned into."

Still, a 2020 study conducted by scientists from the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior and the University of Konstanz in Germany revealed the observation of increased activity in certain animals before seismic events. The investigators studied the behavior of dogs, cows, and sheep near the epicenter of a 6.6 magnitude earthquake in central Italy in October 2016, noting strong reactions prior to earthquakes of magnitude 3.8 or higher when the animals were together in a stable. Equipped with bio loggers and GPS sensors, the animals seemed to forecast earthquakes up to 20 hours in advance, with earlier reactions observed when the animals were closer to the epicenter.

Animal Alerts powered by PetPace™ turns pet health data into earthquake warnings. News release. PetPace. May 20, 2024. Accessed May 21, 2024. 

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240520194540/en

Reisen J. The nose knows: Is there anything like a dog’s nose? American Kennel Club. November 2, 2022. Accessed May 21, 2024. 

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/the-nose-knows/

Jacobo J. Wearable device could aid dogs in helping to predict earthquakes, but more research needed, critics say. 

https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wearable-device-aid-dogs-helping-predict-earthquakes-creators/story?id=109745220

Wikelski M, Mueller U, Scocco P, et al. Potential short‐term earthquake forecasting by Farm Animal Monitoring. 

Animal Alerts initiative aimed to notify Lima, Peru residents of imminent earthquakes with the use of a health monitoring wearable device.

Smart dog collar could help warn of imminent earthquakes

Pet ownership is difficult. With endless options, advice, discouragement, and opinions bombarding owners, is it any wonder that clients arrive at our clinics frustrated, bewildered, and overwhelmed? They were thrilled about their new pet and now they are in the cross fire of well-meaning family and friends, pet companies, and social media—all vying for their attention and dollars and offering questionable combinations of advice.

On the flip side, veterinarians and their staff choose this career because of a lifelong desire to care for animals. This is not just a job; this is a core belief system. However, burnout is a huge problem in our industry that has reached epic numbers and proportions.

 Veterinarians are desperately needed and wanted across the country. Because of the rising costs of every facet of running a veterinary office, we now must fight for every dollar, every patient, and every pet just to keep things afloat. Many veterinarians have sought business advice that dictates an increase in productivity, more revenue per transaction, and more transactions per hour.

The main problem with this reality? The animal loses on both sides. As veterinary clinicians and technicians, we didn’t get into this profession to see as many animals as possible per hour, day after day. Responsible owners want someone who invests as much time and effort in the health and outcomes of their pet as they do.

Taking care of our pets involves more than traditional medical treatments and a transactional business model. It requires a strategy that considers major aspects of their lives to ensure their overall health and happiness.

 This article presents an approach to care, focusing on the 5 essential components: exercise, enrichment, environment, nutrition, and responsibility. I propose that by educating and aligning these cornerstones with owners, veterinarians, and veterinary staffs, we can partner to create a better path of pet ownership that benefits everyone involved. By addressing these core pillars, we also aim to offer support for the mental and emotional well-being of every pet we treat.

Coerenza is an Italian word meaning coherence. Coherence is the logical connection among parts within a system, resulting in a unified whole. This idea of “treat the entire animal” is introduced to every veterinarian in their first semester of veterinary school.

 Shortly afterward, however, to properly study the medicine, we begin to break it down into systems, symptoms, and treatments. Along the way, we forgot to put all those details and minutiae back into perspective. However, a method I call 

 can redirect our focus to produce better relationships inside the clinic, give concrete advice that has proved to be a successful business model, and create devoted clients in the process.

Creating a collaborative approach among veterinarians, staff, owners, and pets will enhance everyone involved. Over several years of research and development, this approach has proved to work, creating a fostering, cooperative environment that reduces stress, improves quality of care, initiates the concept of preventive medicine, and generates more revenue for veterinary clinics. This is the evolution of animal care because of the proactive focus that treats in a way to avoid injuries and illness; provides a longer, better life; and in the process creates a cohesive, collaborative health team.

Regular exercise plays a role in preserving our pets’ well-being and energy levels. Just like humans, it is well documented that pets experience physiologic benefits from activity such as enhanced heart health, weight control, and mental engagement. Making exercise an integral part of their routine helps prevent weight issues, which alleviates stress and boosts fitness.

 Whether it’s going for a walk, engaging in play sessions like fetch, or utilizing toys, games create opportunities for movement, which is essential for maintaining the joy and health of our pets.

Engaging in activities that challenge each pet’s mind is vital for keeping them sharp and preventing boredom or behavior problems. Enrichment involves activities that engage the pet’s senses, curiosity, and natural behaviors. This may include toys, scent-based games, agility training, and opportunities for socializing.

 By offering stimulation and enriching their surroundings, we can improve our pets’ quality of life in addition to supporting their cognitive and emotional well-being.

Pets, especially dogs, live in 2 dramatically different worlds: an air-conditioned, smooth flooring palace where they rarely get wet or dirty and an outside that holds more smells, textures, and variables than they could ever imagine. Creating and exposing the animal to engaging environments is crucial for maintaining the pet’s health and happiness.

 This includes keeping their living area clean, cozy, and hazard free. Providing spaces for rest, playtime, and exploration enhances their routine and contributes to their overall welfare. Monitoring factors like temperature, humidity levels, and noise can help create a stress-free environment that promotes health.

Nutrition plays a critical role in our pets’ wellbeing. As the old adage goes, garbage in often means garbage out. A balanced diet tailored to meet their requirements is key to supporting their health and longevity. Each pet has specific needs based on factors such as age, breed, activity level, and health condition.

 With thousands of new brands in the pet food and treat aisle, coupled with polarizing opinions about raw foods or benefits of grainfree foods, there is no wonder that this topic is hotly debated. As every veterinarian and nutritionist knows, there is no single solution that works for all animals.

We need to help owners cut through the noise to make responsible decisions based on facts and not opinions, likes, or marketing.

In a group of animals, each one has a different role. On the Serengeti Plain, every lion in the pride knows its role in stalking, maneuvering, and securing the next meal. Similarly, in the wild hallways of the Chicago suburbs, each dachshund in the pack knows who the boss is and who is Mom’s favorite. Humor aside, roles and responsibilities play a large part in the lives of animals. Addressing this facet of pet ownership can help negate behavior issues and unnecessary increased stress levels.

By focusing on exercise, enrichment, environment, nutrition, and responsibility for each pet, we can help improve their overall health and happiness. It’s our responsibility as veterinarians and technicians to prioritize the essential needs of our furry friends so they can enjoy long and fulfilling lives.

The coerenza approach requires dedication, commitment, and consistency, but the upsides include client loyalty and happier and more productive staff who “buy in” to the right type of medicine to practice. Most importantly, it produces healthier, happier pets that are balanced and enjoying a remarkable quality of life, which is the primary reason we were called to treat animals.

Lloyd JW. Current economic trends affecting the veterinary medical profession. 

. 2006;36(2):267-279. doi:10.1016/j.cvsm.2005.10.008

Domingues K, Franco NH, Rodrigues I, Stilwell G, Magalh.es-Sant’Ana M. Bibliometric trend analysis of non-conventional (alternative) therapies in veterinary research. Vet Q. 2022;42(1):192-198. doi:10.1080/01652176.2022.2142318

Levine D, Millis DL, Marcellin-Little DJ. Introduction to veterinary physical rehabilitation. 

. 2005;35(6):1247-1254. doi:10.1016/j.cvsm.2005.07.002

VanLeeuwen JA, Nielsen NO, Waltner-Toews D. Ecosystemhealth: an essential field for veterinary medicine. 

Scotney RL. Environmental enrichment in veterinary practice. 

. December 1, 2010. Accessed April 15, 2024. https://www.theveterinarynurse.com/content/clinical/environmental-enrichment-in-veterinary-practice/

Davies M. Veterinary clinical nutrition: success stories: anoverview. 

. 2016;75(3):392-397. doi:10.1017/S002966511600029X

Team collaboration on exercise, enrichment, environment, nutrition, and responsibility can enhance a patient’s quality of life

The coerenza approach: A guide to comprehensive pet care

Fetch Nashville Customer Service Interview

Sponsored by PetSmart Veterinary Services

For Jennifer Bruns, DVM, MPVM, and senior director of vet relations at PetSmart Veterinary Services, customer service is all about providing a “magical” experience for everyone who walks into your clinic. "If [clients] feel like there's magic in your building; that you are elevating customer service; that you take it seriously; that you're really all in for the pets; you're all in for the client; you will notice that they're happier," she said in an interview with 

regarding her joint presentation at Fetch Nashvile with Adam Christman, DVM, MBA. Bruns shared her insights on the transformative power of exceptional customer service in veterinary practice, talking through how to create a magical experience for clients, and how this approach can significantly enhance your business and the profession as a whole.

Bruns highlighted that great customer service is fundamental to every interaction, whether it's with clients or within the team. By drawing parallels to the Disney experience, she illustrated how veterinary practices can integrate magic into their daily operations, creating memorable moments for both pet owners and staff. This focus on customer service not only strengthens client relationships but also fosters a positive and engaging work environment.

One of her key points was the empowerment of practice owners to create a unique and personalized culture within their clinics. She encouraged veterinarians to challenge the status quo and design a practice that reflects their vision and values. By doing so, practice owners can enhance client satisfaction and improve team morale, leading to better medical outcomes and a more fulfilling work experience. Bruns suggested drawing inspiration from various customer service experiences outside the veterinary field and implementing those elements into daily operations. This could mean anything from adopting a friendly greeting routine to creating a welcoming clinic atmosphere.

According to Bruns, a major pitfall to avoid is inadequate communication with clients. Veterinarians, driven by their problem-solving nature, often rush to fix issues without fully listening to the client's concerns, she said. Bruns advised practitioners to pause, listen, and address the client's immediate needs before moving on to other observations. This approach ensures clients feel heard and respected, thereby strengthening trust and loyalty. “I think one of the biggest pitfalls of practices is just not [taking a moment from problem solving] and listening to what your client wants."

For those not yet practice owners, Dr. Bruns encouraged exploring ownership opportunities, especially given the evolving models in the veterinary profession. She highlighted the support available through PetSmart Veterinary Services, where veterinarians can own their practices with substantial backing. Ownership allows veterinarians to implement their vision and create a magical experience for clients and staff alike. "If you're the boss, the buck stops with you,” she said, “You authentically can make those changes."

Bruns concluded by urging veterinarians to find their unique brand of magic. She likened this to the distinctiveness of Disney princesses, each with their own strengths and passions. Identifying and harnessing one's personal magic can lead to more innovative and satisfying practice management, ultimately benefiting clients, pets, and the veterinary team. By embracing the art of customer service and creating a magical experience, veterinarians can transform their practices, enhance client loyalty, and foster a happier, more cohesive team, said Bruns.

Videos

Learn how listening both the customer and your heart can make all the difference

Bringing magic to veterinary practice with Dr Jennifer Bruns

Former US Army veterinarian, Elizabeth Chosa, DVM, speaks about her active duty experience

What the US Army Veterinary Corp taught this veterinarian

Elizabeth Chosa, DVM, cofounder of Veterinary Hope Foundation, sat down with 

 for an interview at the Fetch conference in Nashville, Tennessee, and discussed her current and former career opportunities within the veterinary medicine profession. From the US Army Veterinary Corp to emergency relief work, Chosa shares some of what she learned along the way.

 I have worn a lot of hats in veterinary medicine over the years, but I'm currently working predominantly as a relief [veterinarian]. I work mostly in an emergency practice, but I also am the responsible veterinarian for a rural shelter and I do occasionally fill in in general practice as well.

I was surprised to find how much I loved being an army veterinarian because I got to do a lot of different things. And for me, more importantly, I loved being a part of something that was bigger than myself, that had very clear expectations, and very clear hierarchy. It was a great place to learn and grow.