Veterinarians, veterinary technicians, practice managers, rescuers, behaviorists, nutritionists, trainers, volunteers and other animal professionals are the backbone of pet care – helping pets and their families live in harmony and health.
Catster wants to showcase the underappreciated champions of the animal kingdom – the heroes of the pet world.
We interview some of the most inspiring animal clinics, veterinary hospitals, animal shelters and rehabilitation organizations from around the world and share all of the amazing, and often tough, experiences they face as they work to help, heal, guide, revitalize and protect our furry family members.
These are the stories of unsung animal superheroes!
Meet Dr Cherry Choi, Head Veterinarian at Sydney Veterinary Emergency & Specialists (SVES).
mission
In your own words, what is the mission and objectives of Sydney Veterinary Emergency Specialists (SVES)?
Sydney Veterinary Emergency Specialists (SVES) is dedicated to providing the highest level of emergency and specialty care to pets in need. Our mission is to provide compassionate, comprehensive and top-notch medical advice and treatment to improve the lives of pets and support pet families in crisis situations. We strive to be a trusted partner to the pet community, providing excellent veterinary care around the clock.
What is your personal mission or goal as a veterinary professional and as an individual?
For me, it’s about making sure pets are comfortable and receive the care they need. Personally, I aim to continually improve my skills, keep up with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine, and advocate for animal welfare. My goal is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of pets and their owners, one pet at a time.
Daily Experiences
What is it like working as a veterinarian in Australia and at SVES?
Working as a veterinarian in Sydney, and especially at SVES, is both challenging and rewarding. The fast-paced environment of emergency and specialist care means you’re always on edge and you never know what’s coming next. We’re lucky to work in a vibrant city with a strong community of pet lovers. At SVES, we have access to cutting-edge technology and a skilled team that can tackle even the most challenging cases.
How big is your team?
Our team is made up of a wide range of members, including specialists from various disciplines, emergency veterinarians, dedicated nurses and support staff. We are a collaborative environment where everyone plays a vital role in our patients’ care. In total, our team consists of over 80 people, working together to achieve the best outcomes for our patients.
Are there any staffing shortages and how are you dealing with them?
We are fortunate to have a solid and committed team. However, many veterinary practices can face staffing shortages due to high demand for veterinary services, especially in emergency care. We manage this by prioritizing cases based on urgency, supporting each other as a team, and continually recruiting skilled professionals who are passionate about veterinary medicine. We also place a strong emphasis on work-life balance to retain staff and keep morale high.
On average, how many animals do you help per week?
We see hundreds of animals every week. Our emergency department is busy 24/7 and we take specialist appointments. Our volume fluctuates, but the health of each and every patient is our number one priority.
Challenges and rewards
What is the most difficult part of your job? How do you deal with euthanasia and the death of a patient?
The hardest part of being a veterinarian is dealing with the loss of our patients and providing compassionate support to pet owners who make the heartbreaking decision to euthanize their beloved pet. It is never easy, but we remind ourselves that euthanasia is also a “treatment option” to prevent further suffering. We support pet owners through this process, showing empathy and understanding. It is important to take the time to embrace these moments, rely on our team, and focus on the positive impact we have made on their pet’s life.
What is the biggest challenge facing your organization?
Some of the biggest challenges include managing a high caseload, the mental strain on staff, and keeping up with advances in veterinary medicine. Additionally, ensuring pet owners are informed and prepared for emergencies can be a challenge, but we are continually working on it.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
“The most rewarding part is seeing a pet recover and go home to their family. Knowing that our work directly contributes to saving lives and making a difference to families is incredibly rewarding. Every positive outcome, no matter how small, reminds us why we do what we do.”
future
What are your main goals for the future of Sydney Veterinary Emergency & Specialists?
Our primary goals are to serve more pets, continue to invest in state-of-the-art equipment and training, and maintain our standards of excellence in veterinary care. We also aim to foster a supportive environment for our staff and further engage with our community to promote pet health and education.
story
What achievement or particular animal has had a major impact on you as an individual or as a team?
There are countless animal stories that have touched our hearts. One that stands out in particular is the case of a dog who was brought to us after a serious accident and was not expected to survive. Thanks to intensive care and the combined efforts of our three departments and day and night teams, the dog made an amazing recovery and was able to go home with his family. Stories like these inspire us to go beyond our limits and keep doing all we can for our patients.
How to support
How can ordinary people contribute to making your life easier?
Members of the public can contribute to the health of their pets by being proactive about their pets’ health, attending regular checkups with their local holistic vet, staying up to date on preventive care, understanding what constitutes an emergency and seeking advice when necessary.
If I want to visit, join, support or volunteer with the Sydney Veterinary Emergency Specialists Society (SVES), where can I find more information or get in touch?
BVSc MANZCVS (Small Animal Surgery) GC-SAECC
ECC Chief Veterinarian
Sydney Veterinary Emergency Room and Specialists
675 Botany Road, Rosebery NSW 2018
Phone: 02 9197 5800
