Blog

09.16.11

Veterinary Specialty Hospital Powers through the Blackout

It’s been over a week since 5 million people in our region were plunged into darkness during Southern California’s largest ever blackout. Being a 24-hour veterinary hospital, work can’t stop – there are critically ill dogs and cats needing immediate treatment. I am happy to report that it was “business as usual” at VSH. In ER, the doctors and technicians didn’t miss a beat. As they were plunged into darkness, they immediately whipped out their penlights working intensely as if nothing had happened. The emergency generator kicked in to power life-saving equipment and back-up lights were lit.

Two surgeries continued after the power went out. A cat’s gallbladder was removed and a dog had TPLO (knee) surgery. Both had successful outcomes and were in their homes the next day. Back down in the ER it was more intense, with several critical cases. A dog was suffering with seizures from the most severe case of chocolate toxicity we have ever seen. He’s fine and at home. There were a lot of dog bite cases, heat stroke and a case of pericardial effusion (excess fluid around the heart). One of our clients whose dog is tube-fed called in a panic unable to blend food. She came down to the hospital where we were happy to plug in her blender so her dog could be fed. We were even able to plug in a computer and printer to maintain medical records and provide discharge instructions.

Although the night was long and very hot the animals were safe and well-cared for. It is truly an honor to be among such hard-working doctors, technicians and staff who every day save lives and help our dog and cat companions.