VCA Regional Institute for Veterinary Emergencies and Referrals

For pet owners in Tennessee, especially in the Chattanooga area, the health and safety of our animal companions are a top concern. While our regular family veterinarian is essential for routine care, there are times when a pet's needs exceed a general practice, particularly during emergencies or when a complex health issue arises. In those critical moments, knowing where to turn for advanced, round-the-clock care is paramount. The VCA Regional Institute for Veterinary Emergencies and Referrals, affectionately known as VCA RIVER, is a leading emergency and specialty animal hospital that serves as a vital resource for the entire region. This facility is more than just a place for urgent care; it is a center of excellence staffed by veterinary professionals dedicated to providing the highest level of compassionate and expert care. As one pet owner shared after a harrowing experience, the team at VCA RIVER was "amazing," treating their cat "as family" and providing "10/10, 5 stars, highly recommend" service.

VCA RIVER stands out as a state-of-the-art facility designed to handle a wide range of veterinary needs, from unexpected accidents to long-term specialty care. The hospital is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), a distinction held by only a select few veterinary referral practices, signifying their adherence to the highest standards of patient care and facility quality. Their services are often provided on a referral basis from a primary veterinarian, ensuring a collaborative approach to complex cases. However, as an emergency hospital, they are also prepared to receive pets for urgent medical treatment at any time, day or night. This dual function as both a referral center and an emergency hospital makes them an invaluable asset to the Tennessee community.

Located at 2132 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406, USA, VCA RIVER is easily accessible for pet owners throughout the Chattanooga area and beyond. The hospital’s location is convenient for those traveling from different parts of the city and surrounding counties. Accessibility has been a key consideration in the design and operation of the facility. The hospital features a wheelchair-accessible parking lot and a wheelchair-accessible restroom. These thoughtful accommodations ensure that all visitors, including those with mobility challenges, can navigate the facility with comfort and ease during what can often be a stressful time.

Given the nature of emergency and specialty care, VCA RIVER operates 24/7, 365 days a year. While they are always open for emergencies, appointments are recommended for specialty care and referrals. This allows the hospital's specialized departments to prepare for each case and provide a thorough consultation. For emergency situations, pet owners are encouraged to call ahead to notify the staff of their arrival, which can help expedite the triage process.

VCA RIVER offers an extensive list of services, covering everything from immediate critical care to long-term treatment and rehabilitation. Their expertise is categorized into several departments, ensuring a focused and high-level approach to each medical specialty.

Services Offered:

• Emergency and Critical Care: Providing 24/7 care for veterinary emergencies, including advanced anesthetic monitoring, fluid therapy, oxygen therapy, and treatment for trauma and poisoning.
• Internal Medicine: Expert diagnosis and medical management of complex diseases using advanced techniques like abdominal ultrasonography, bronchoscopy, and gastroduodenoscopy.
• Veterinary Surgery: A full surgical suite for both emergency and scheduled procedures, including soft tissue surgeries, foreign body removal, and complex orthopedic surgeries like knee surgeries and TTA repair.
• Advanced Diagnostics: Utilizing state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging, including digital radiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and abdominal ultrasound to get a precise understanding of a pet's condition.
• Physical Rehabilitation: Offering services such as canine rehabilitation and physical therapy to help pets recover from injuries, surgeries, or manage chronic conditions.
• Specialty Care and Therapies: Providing advanced treatments like hyperbaric oxygen therapy and stem cell therapy to accelerate healing and improve outcomes.
• Wellness and Preventative Care: While primarily a referral and emergency center, they also offer services like flea & tick prevention, heartworm medication, and spaying/neutering.
• Comprehensive Support: Offering a full veterinary pharmacy, prescription refills, and home delivery services for medications and therapeutic diets.

VCA RIVER is distinguished by several key features that underscore its commitment to excellence in veterinary medicine. These highlights are what make it a trusted choice for pet owners and referring veterinarians in the region.

Features / Highlights:

• 24/7 Availability: The hospital is open at all times, providing peace of mind for pet owners who may face an emergency after regular clinic hours.
• Specialized Expertise: The hospital is staffed by board-certified specialists and experienced veterinary professionals, offering a higher level of expertise for complex cases.
• State-of-the-Art Technology: The use of advanced equipment for diagnostics and treatment, such as MRI and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, ensures pets receive the most modern care available.
• Compassionate and Caring Staff: Customer reviews consistently highlight the staff's kindness and empathy, especially during difficult times like saying goodbye to a beloved pet. They are praised for making both pets and their owners feel "loved and comfortable."
• Accessibility: The wheelchair-accessible parking lot and restroom are a testament to the hospital's commitment to making its services available to all.
• Financial Planning: The hospital accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, providing various options for payment, which can be crucial during an unexpected emergency.

For pet owners in Tennessee, what is truly worth choosing about VCA Regional Institute for Veterinary Emergencies and Referrals is the unparalleled level of care and support they provide. In an emergency, every second counts, and knowing you have a 24/7 facility with specialists on staff gives you a critical advantage. The seamless coordination with your primary veterinarian for referrals ensures a holistic and well-managed treatment plan for your pet's complex needs. The combination of advanced medical technology, a wide range of specialized services, and a compassionate, professional team makes VCA RIVER a beacon of hope and healing for pets and their families. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your pet is in the hands of professionals who treat them like family is, as one reviewer put it, priceless.

Contact Information:

Address: 2132 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406, USA

Phone: (423) 698-4612

Mobile Phone: +1 423-698-4612

VCA Regional Institute for Veterinary Emergencies and Referrals

2132 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406, USA