#United States #Asheville #Animal Care #Vets Pets

Vets Pets Opening AVL Animal Urgent Care

In a significant development for pet owners in Asheville, North Carolina, Vets Pets is thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of AVL Animal Urgent Care at 17 Bryson Street this summer. This new facility aims to provide essential urgent care services for pets, particularly crucial in the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastating impact on the area.

Background on the Project

Vets Pets, a cooperative network of veterinary hospitals operating throughout North Carolina, recognized the pressing need for accessible urgent veterinary care in central Asheville. While there are emergency services concentrated in the southern parts of the city, residents in the Biltmore area faced challenges in obtaining timely veterinary assistance. Responding to this community need, Vets Pets launched a project to construct a new animal hospital.

However, in September 2024, just weeks before the planned opening, Hurricane Helene struck Western North Carolina, causing significant flooding and damage to the facility. The storm destroyed the hospital's interior, forcing the team to start from scratch. This setback was not only a loss for the hospital but also for the entire Asheville community, which had been eagerly awaiting the facility's opening.

Commitment to the Community

Despite the adversity faced, Dr. Ethan Abrams, the lead veterinarian at AVL Animal Urgent Care, remained committed to the vision of bringing quality veterinary care to Asheville. With a wealth of experience in emergency medicine and critical care amassed from various hospitals across the country, Dr. Abrams emphasized the importance of resilience in both the veterinary team and the community.

"It was disheartening to see how Hurricane Helene impacted what we had worked so hard to build," said Dr. Abrams. "However, we have always believed in the strength and spirit of Asheville. We are finally nearing the completion of this important project, and we can't wait to serve our community's beloved pets."

Services Offered

AVL Animal Urgent Care is designed to address situations that require prompt veterinary attention but do not necessarily demand emergency room treatment. The hospital will cater to pets needing immediate assistance, providing same-day and walk-in care from 12 PM to 10 PM. This strategic opening hours arrangement aims to make urgent care more convenient for families and individuals in the Biltmore area.

The facility's design emphasizes accessibility and community engagement, ensuring that pet owners can receive the timely care their animals deserve without the stress of travel across town.

Leadership Voices

Steve Thomas, CEO of Vets Pets, reflected on the significance of the new hospital in the context of the community's spirit of resilience. "The effects of Hurricane Helene were felt far and wide, and our hospital was just one piece of the larger puzzle. We are proud to contribute to the rebuilding efforts and to be a part of Asheville's recovery," he stated.

Additionally, Dr. Shannon Bass, Vice President of Medical Leadership at Vets Pets, reiterated that the original vision driving the project has not diminished. "The need for quality urgent care for pets remains vital. We are excited to finally launch AVL Animal Urgent Care and provide for the local families and visitors who depend on us."

Looking Ahead

The upcoming summer opening of AVL Animal Urgent Care represents not just a restoration of a facility but also a return of hope and support for pet owners in Asheville. As the community looks toward recovery, Vets Pets continues to stand at the forefront of veterinary care, ready to meet the needs of beloved pets and their owners.

To stay updated on the opening and services offered, residents can visit avlvet.com.

Vets Pets remains firmly committed to enhancing veterinary care in North Carolina, ensuring veterinarians have the support and resources they need to focus on delivering exceptional care for animals.