LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A lot of us consider our pets to be our family and when they have health scares, we jump into action.
Now, a new resource is launching in Central Arkansas to transport your four-legged friends on four wheels.
"We wanted to offer something that was not only unique to our community, and would serve the entire community in the surrounding areas but that allowed us the opportunity to provide treatment of pets that really needed it," said Stephanie Dungey, Out West Veterinary Urgent Care Medical Services Manager.
Whether it's an emergency, or you just don't have a way to bring your pet to the vet, Out West Veterinary Urgent Care will soon be able to come to you in its new pet ambulance.
"Initially, we're thinking, okay, maybe one, two hours, maybe 60 miles out? But definitely, I think it's gonna depend on the circumstances," said Ashley Heatherly, Out West Medical Services Manager.
Both Heatherly and Dungey with Out West are the team behind the ambulance.
Inside the vehicle, they have equipment for medical emergencies.
As our state continues to see a shortage of veterinarians, Dungey said she hopes it will strengthen relationships with animal hospitals in the area.
"The way I view it, we truly are as an industry, one team. And I think the more we have that open relationship and working conditions between hospitals, perhaps that will also attract doctors to want to pick up shifts in this type of environment," Dungey said.
Dr. Scott Koenig at Animal Family Practice in Bryant said he looks forward to having this resource for his clients.
"Any of those things that might be needed, that can't be provided by an owner who's trying to make that 20-minute trip and bite their fingernails at the same time, you know, because they're nervous. So knowing that they're going to be cared for that's just gonna be a great service," Dr. Koenig said.
"With this being a brand new service for our state and with no one for us to model it after. This will truly be a service that we kind of get to create and carve out as we as we begin it," she said.
The service officially starts on Monday, March 25 and it will be used to transport animals from one hospital to another or from home to a hospital and back again.
For now, Out West expects the Pet Transport Unit to be available Monday- Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
To discuss availability and cost, you can reach out to them at (501) 944-3914.
