hough pet families hope they’ll never have to face an emergency situation, being prepared before a crisis happens might just save your furbaby’s life. Christie D’Andrea, DVM, founder and CEO of Veterinary Urgent Care Center (VUCC), with locations throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts, demystifies common misconceptions about pet health, and shares tips for making an emergency plan.
Dr. D’Andrea, as an emergency vet clinic, what are some of the key services you provide?
We see a variety of different cases – from giving vaccines to treating ear infections and urinary tract problems – and our goal is to be a resource for anything that a pet owner may need help with. In some cases, we offer surgical services for uterine infections and foreign bodies that pets like to eat but cannot pass. We are equipped with a radiology suite for imaging and can run several diagnostics, including blood and urine, in-house. We also have point-of-care ultrasound in our office to help our team give a thorough examination and guide therapeutic intervention. Our teams diagnose, answer your questions, and help triage pets to emergency medical centers if they need critical care, since our hospitals are not open 24 hours a day.
What are a few ways people can be ready for a pet health emergency should it arise?
Being prepared for a pet emergency is a key part of keeping your pet safe and healthy. Every pet owner should have a basic pet first aid kit at home, know how to recognize signs of distress, and be aware of the nearest veterinary clinic’s location and contact information. Learning simple first aid steps and discussing emergency plans with your veterinarian can make a big difference in a crisis. Preparation can save valuable time – and potentially your pet’s life – when every second counts.
During your tenure as a vet, what is the most surprising or uplifting thing you’ve learned or experienced while on the job?
While historically the most rewarding part of my job as a veterinarian was making pets feel better, my role has changed as this company has grown. I am incredibly proud of the work environment at VUCC and the positive impact we have had on the lives of veterinarians and veterinary support teams in the communities we serve. Veterinary medicine is not always easy, and I think we take it to heart more than clients understand – we take enormous pride in providing a space where people feel respected, heard, and valued. That, in turn, leads to quality, caring veterinary teams ready to help pets and clients in need. Learn more at VetUrgentCare.com
Myth: Pets eat grass because they’re sick.
Fact: Many pets, especially dogs, eat grass out of boredom or habit. While it can occasionally indicate digestive upset, it’s not always a sign of illness.
Myth: Dry noses mean a pet is sick.
Fact: A pet’s nose can vary in moisture throughout the day. A dry nose alone is not a reliable indicator of illness.
Myth: Indoor pets don’t need vaccinations or parasite prevention.
Fact: Core vaccines and preventatives are still important. Even if they only live inside, pets can still be exposed to diseases and parasites through open windows, shoes, other pets, and even houseplants. Animals can also develop cancer, heart disease, diabetes, kidney/liver disease, urinary tract health problems, and more in the same way people can, which means regular veterinary care is essential.
Myth: Garlic is good for repelling fleas.
Fact: Garlic is toxic to dogs and cats and should never be used as a flea preventative. Safe, vet-recommended products are the only reliable choice.
Myth: A wagging tail always means a dog is happy.
Fact: Tail wagging can also signal anxiety, agitation, or even aggression, depending on speed, position, and body language context.
Myth: Cats always land on their feet.
Fact: While cats have good reflexes, they can still be seriously injured in falls – especially from high places.
Myth: Pets will let you know when they’re in pain.
Fact: Many animals hide pain instinctively. Subtle changes in behavior or appetite often signal discomfort and shouldn’t be ignored.
Myth: It’s okay to skip dental care for pets.
Fact: Dental disease is common in pets and can lead to serious health issues. Regular dental cleanings and at-home care are important.
NEW: 91 Point Judith Road, Narragansett
73 Highland Avenue, East Providence
Learn more and find additional MA
locations at VetUrgentCare.com
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