University of Pennsylvania Veterinary Hospital Emergency Wing
University of Pennsylvania Veterinary Hospital Emergency Wing is an emergency & critical care practice in Philadelphia, PA. Procedures include Bloodwork, Physical exam, Emergency Service, and Critical Care.
About
The University of Pennsylvania Veterinary Hospital Emergency Wing provides emergency and critical care services 24/7, 365 days a year. It is a Level One Trauma Facility, as re-certified by the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society (VECCS), and features board-certified specialists and an advanced trauma center. The hospital also has advanced diagnostic capabilities for quick on-site evaluations.
This emergency service ensures patients have the best chance for survival and recovery, with a focus on trauma, shock, and other emergency conditions. The facility supports referring veterinarians by sending a letter explaining visit details after a pet's emergency care.
Surgical team
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Deborah C. Mandell
VMD, DACVECC
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Rachel Clarkin-Breslin
VMD, DACVECC
Dr. Rachel Clarkin-Breslin is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care.
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Sage M. De Rosa
DVM, DACVECC
Dr. De Rosa is one of the Emergency and Critical Care faculty at Penn.
Procedures
- Bloodwork
- Physical exam
- Emergency Service
- Critical Care
- Medical Care
- Diagnostic tests
- X-rays
- Registration
- Triage
Equipment
- Advanced trauma center
Photos
Frequently asked questions
- What is the process for pet owners when arriving at the emergency department?
- Upon arrival, a pet will be seen by a triage nurse or veterinary student who prioritizes care needs based on symptoms. A brief history of the problem will be requested. If immediate medical care is needed, permission for stabilization will be sought. After triage, registration collects owner and pet information, and then a veterinary student or veterinarian will take a detailed medical history before a physical exam and discussion of diagnostic tests and treatment plans.
- What credentials do the specialists at the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary Hospital Emergency Wing hold?
- The emergency service is staffed by board-certified specialists. For example, Dr. Rachel Clarkin-Breslin is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (DACVECC), and Dr. Sage M. De Rosa is also a DACVECC. The senior clinicians are leaders in their field, lecturing at international conferences and publishing research.
- What should pet owners bring when visiting the emergency department?
- Pet owners should bring a copy of any CD or flash drive, bloodwork, and medical records from all hospitals their pet has been treated at. All medications the pet is currently taking, especially compounded ones, should also be brought. If the pet ingested a toxin, the packaging is very important to bring so the chemical name can be identified.
- How does the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary Hospital Emergency Wing prioritize patient care?
- The hospital prioritizes patient care by treating the sickest pets first. If a pet owner notices others being seen before them, it is because those pets require more urgent attention. If a pet waiting in the waiting area appears to be worsening, owners are encouraged to ask to speak with a nurse for a re-evaluation.
- What role do veterinary students play in the emergency department?
- Veterinary students at the emergency department have completed two or more years of veterinary school, including coursework and hands-on patient care. They work to ensure pets are comfortable and receive high-quality care. Their duties include performing diagnostic tests, treatments, procedures, and making follow-up calls to check on pet owners and their pets.
Contact & hours
Address
3900 Delancey St
Philadelphia
Phone