After months of overnight closures, WAVES Veterinary Hospital in Langford is re-offering 24-hour emergency services starting June 21.
In August 2022, the clinic paused its around-the-clock service for southern Vancouver Island residents and their furry friends.
Some of the reasons for the initial closure were the pandemic pet boom, a severe lack of veterinarians across B.C. and staff burnout, according to Dr. Erinne Branter.
Branter, the co-founder of WAVES, tells CHEK News she wanted to ensure that her team was cared for before returning to 24-hour service.
“Staff were not just taking a week or two off, they were taking three months off for mental health leave, further leaving whoever was working with more stress,” said Branter.
Last December, the clinic started offering limited hours for emergency services, but opening up for 24 hours was the end goal to serve the community better.
Langford dog owner and WAVES customer Brendan Bahan is happy to hear about the opening and says the service is vital.
“When you don’t know what is going on with your animal, you need someone, a professional, to tell you. You don’t want to wait,” Bahan told CHEK News.
“It’s just like your kids,” he added. “You take them to the hospital, and it has to be open.”
Anyone with questions is encouraged to call the clinic at 778-432-4322 or visit WAVES’ website.
Tchadas Leo
