Full-Time Veterinary Assistant

Join our dedicated team at Associated Veterinary Partners as a full-time Veterinary Assistant in Brooklyn, New York. In this vital role, you will support veterinarians and technicians in providing exceptional care to animals. Your responsibilities will include assisting with examinations, administering medications, and ensuring a clean and safe environment for our furry patients.

Join our dedicated team at Associated Veterinary Partners as a full-time Veterinary Receptionist. In this pivotal role, you will be the first point of contact for our clients and their beloved pets, providing exceptional customer service and support. Your responsibilities will include managing appointment schedules, answering phone inquiries, and maintaining patient records with accuracy and care.We are looking for someone who is passionate about animal care and possesses excellent communication skills. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy working with both animals and people, we would love to hear from you!

Inventory Manager (Part-time or Full-time)Location: Sheepshead Bay Veterinary Hospital - Brooklyn, New YorkAbout The Role:Join the dynamic team at Sheepshead Bay Veterinary Group, a proud member of Associated Veterinary Partners (AVP). We are looking for a meticulous and proactive Inventory Manager to enhance our high-volume veterinary hospital operations. Our facility operates every day of the week, necessitating a robust inventory management system to support uninterrupted patient care and meet weekend demands. This role is hands-on and requires close collaboration with veterinarians, technicians, and management to ensure seamless inventory flow.In addition to inventory management tasks, the successful candidate will serve as a lead team member on the hospital floor, assisting the Practice Manager with daily operations as needed. Schedule flexibility is required, with additional hours allocated based on hospital needs, and may involve roles such as Customer Service Representative, Veterinary Assistant, or Veterinary Technician.Responsibilities Include:Conducting weekly inventory counts and managing stock levels effectively.Placing and tracking inventory orders aligned with hospital demands.Receiving, unpacking, and verifying deliveries against packing slips.Organizing inventory storage using FIFO methods and maintaining order in pharmacy areas.Monitoring expiration dates to minimize waste and identify inventory trends.Managing backordered items and communicating alternative solutions to veterinary staff.Keeping accurate logs for controlled substances and ensuring compliance.Conducting quarterly inventory counts and supporting additional counts as necessary.Assisting with special orders and vendor communications.Acting as a lead team member on the hospital floor, supporting operations alongside the Practice Manager.Qualifications:Proven experience in inventory management is required.Experience in a veterinary hospital setting is preferred.Exceptional organizational and time management skills.High level of attention to detail and accountability.Able to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment.Strong communication and teamwork abilities.Compensation and Benefits:Competitive pay range: $28–$31 per hour, depending on experience.Flexible opportunity for part-time or full-time positions.Minimum of 25 hours per week for part-time roles.This is an in-hospital position, not remote.Comprehensive benefits package including health, vision, and dental insurance.401(k) plan and paid time off (PTO).

ABOUT VETERINARY EMERGENCY GROUPFounded in 2014, the Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) was established to revolutionize the emergency veterinary experience for both pets and their owners. With a nationwide network of hospitals operating 24/7, 365 days a year, VEG continuously strives to create a superior emergency care environment for pets and their families, as well as for our team members—our VEGgies!At VEG, we are committed to reshaping the landscape of veterinary emergency medicine. Our open-concept facilities enable you to manage diverse emergency cases, including exotic animals. We prioritize customer-focused care to ensure that every visit is a positive experience for both pets and their owners.We say yes to fostering a work environment where our VEGgies feel appreciated and empowered to excel. With exceptional opportunities for professional growth and mentorship, we encourage our team to thrive in their veterinary careers and make a significant impact in ways they may have never imagined.VEG has been recognized as a certified Great Place to Work® for both 2025 and 2026. THE ROLEAs a Nursing Trainer at VEG, you play a pivotal role in nurturing the growth of our team members. Your leadership will be characterized by curiosity, compassion, and a strong focus on professional development. Your responsibilities encompass more than just skill-building; you will foster confidence and propel careers within emergency medicine. Whether mentoring on the floor, leading peer sessions, or crafting educational resources, your influence will resonate throughout the hospital. You will customize training to accommodate various learning styles, celebrate achievements, and support every VEGgie eager to advance their career. Your efforts will contribute to making VEG a place where learning, leadership, and passion for veterinary care flourish.

Exciting Opportunity for a Veterinarian in Brooklyn, NY!Pure Paws Veterinary Care of Clinton Hill is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Veterinarian to join our dynamic team. As a full-time Veterinarian, you will deliver exceptional medical and urgent care to a diverse range of animals, including our beloved cats and dogs.This position is ideal for a veterinarian who has completed internship training in small animal or emergency medicine, with at least 2 years of experience following their internship. You will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoying a busy appointment-driven caseload with the support of daytime urgent care. While performing surgery is not mandatory, opportunities for routine procedures are available for those interested.What You Can Expect:Respectful Work Schedule: Work 32 hours per week across 4 shifts with no on-call duties or holiday work required. Our hours are 9 am to 7 pm Monday through Thursday and 9 am to 5 pm Friday and Saturday, with appointments concluding 30 minutes before closing.Robust Support Team: Benefit from a favorable 3:1 staff-to-doctor ratio, allowing you to focus on providing excellent care. Our team includes 3 DVMs, 2 LVTs, 8 Assistants, and 5 CSRs.Comprehensive Benefits: Enjoy a range of benefits including health, dental, vision insurance, retirement plans, a sign-on bonus, relocation assistance, discounts on pet services (50% off), a uniform allowance, a $2500 continuing education allowance, and coverage for your dues and license fees.Generous Paid Time Off: Recharge with 16 days of Paid Time Off (PTO), paid holidays, and dedicated CE days each year.Partnership Opportunities: Explore partnership potential through Veterinary Practice Partners (VPP), which supports over 260 partners across 185 locations, offering assistance in operations, marketing, and finance.

Alliance Animal Health is looking for a Veterinary Assistant to join the team in Brooklyn. This role centers on supporting veterinarians and ensuring quality care for pets and their owners. What you will do Assist with animal examinations and routine checkups Prepare and organize medications as directed Help maintain a clean and safe facility for animals and staff Provide hands-on support during medical procedures Who thrives here People who care deeply about animal welfare Those comfortable working alongside veterinarians and team members Individuals ready to handle a busy, active workplace This position offers the chance to make a difference in the lives of pets and their families while working with a group dedicated to compassionate service.

Part-Time Veterinarian (Saturdays Only) Role Overview Pure Paws Veterinary Care of Clinton Hill in Brooklyn, NY is seeking a part-time Veterinarian to provide medical and urgent care for cats and dogs. This position focuses on delivering quality care in a supportive clinic setting. Schedule and Location Hours: Saturdays only, 9 AM to 5 PM (approximately 8 hours per week) No on-call duties Address: 944 Fulton St., Brooklyn, NY 11238 Compensation Salary: $40,000–$45,000 annually for part-time hours Incentive: 20% pro-sal incentive, with no negative accrual during the first 12 months What You Can Expect Work-life balance: No late shifts; regular, predictable schedule Team support: 3:1 staff-to-doctor ratio, with a team including 4 DVMs, 2 Licensed Veterinary Technicians, 8 Assistants, 5 Client Service Representatives, and an experienced Practice Manager Benefits: 50% discount on pet services Uniform allowance $1,000 Continuing Education allowance Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Coverage of dues, license fees, and AVMA-PLIT PTO and Holidays: 4 days of paid time off, paid holidays, and paid Continuing Education days each year Partnership potential: Explore partnership opportunities through Veterinary Practice Partners (VPP), supporting over 260 co-owned practices in 185 locations

ABOUT US At Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG), we are a dynamic and rapidly expanding emergency veterinary organization with multiple hospital locations throughout the United States. Our mission is to support both pets and their owners during critical times. We are transforming emergency care with our customer-first philosophy and a genuine focus on creating an employee-centric workplace. CULTURE AND VALUES AT VEG We prioritize the safety, security, and appreciation of both our clients and staff. Our goal is to deliver an exceptional experience for everyone involved. With the highest Net Promoter Score (NPS) in the industry, we are committed to maintaining an environment where the brightest minds in emergency veterinary care thrive and grow. VEG has been recognized as one of the nominees for INC Magazine’s Best Places to Work this year! ROLE FOCUS In this position, you will adopt a patient-centered approach, performing treatments, conducting assessments, and providing comprehensive patient care. This role encourages your development as an emergency veterinary technician and offers pathways for advancement towards a Veterinary Technician Specialist certification while collaborating with our veterinary team. QUALIFICATIONS The ideal candidate is a credentialed veterinary technician who is enthusiastic, motivated, and values continuous learning. You should be a team player who treats colleagues with honesty and respect. A passion for working with animals and people is essential. You should be adaptable, eager to learn new skills, and think creatively. Strong interpersonal skills are important, as is a willingness to assist wherever needed, all while maintaining a positive attitude. Effective communication with peers, clients, and the team is crucial. RESPONSIBILITIES Treat every patient and client with utmost compassion and care. Perform essential clinical procedures and assessments as directed by the veterinary team. Work collaboratively with the veterinary team to execute treatment plans. Participate in ongoing training and professional development.

Join Our Oncology Team!The Veterinary Emergency & Referral Group (VERG) in Brooklyn, NY, is on the lookout for a skilled Credentialed Veterinary Technician to enhance our dynamic Oncology Department.About UsVERG - Brooklyn is at the forefront of 24/7 advanced emergency and specialty veterinary care. Our mission is to provide state-of-the-art medicine within a collaborative, diverse, and team-oriented environment. Here, compassionate professionals work closely with board-certified specialists and fellow team members, united in our commitment to delivering extraordinary care to pets.What We’re SeekingWe are in search of an empathetic and dedicated individual who can effectively communicate with pet owners and is passionate about making a significant impact in the lives of animals and their families. The ideal candidate will possess the patience and sensitivity to engage in meaningful discussions with pet parents, as this role involves substantial client interaction.As we expand, we are looking for top-tier technicians eager to contribute to a transformative experience.Your Role and ResponsibilitiesAs an Oncology Technician, you will work alongside experienced Medical Oncologists and other dedicated veterinary professionals. Your role will be crucial in diagnosing and treating cancer using advanced methods such as ultrasound, biopsies, cytology, and radiology. You will assist in administering chemotherapy and palliative treatments, ensuring our patients receive the highest quality of life.As part of the Oncology team, you will provide essential chemotherapy and treatment support, safely administering chemotherapy, monitoring patients for any adverse reactions, and educating clients on post-treatment care. You will oversee oncology patients throughout their treatment process, delivering pain management and support while prioritizing their comfort and safety.Advanced Diagnostic Procedures: Assist with fine needle aspirations, biopsies, cytology, and histopathology.Client Communication & Education: Guide pet owners through treatment options, provide clear home care instructions, and offer emotional support.

ABOUT VETERINARY EMERGENCY GROUP (VEG)Founded in 2014, VEG is dedicated to revolutionizing the veterinary emergency experience for both pets and their owners. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, our facilities operate 24/7, 365 days a year, providing a compassionate and innovative approach to emergency care. Our rapid expansion across the nation reflects our success in enhancing the emergency experience, not just for patients but also for our dedicated staff, the VEGgies!At VEG, we empower you to pursue your career aspirations in veterinary emergency medicine. Enjoy working in open-concept hospitals where you can manage diverse emergency cases, including exotic animals, all while fostering a customer-centric atmosphere that prioritizes quality care.We are proud to be recognized as a certified Great Place to Work® for both 2025 and 2026, ensuring that our team feels valued and supported.

Are you a compassionate and dedicated professional eager to enhance the field of veterinary medicine? Veterinary Emergency & Referral Group (VERG - Brooklyn) is searching for a meticulous and client-oriented Veterinary Financial Service Representative to join our expanding team and manage the financial aspects of our client's accounts effectively. About Us VERG - Brooklyn stands at the forefront of 24/7 advanced emergency and specialty veterinary care, passionately committed to delivering state-of-the-art medical services in a collaborative and diverse environment. Our team of skilled professionals works alongside board-certified specialists, ensuring that pets receive the utmost care and respect. Your Role As a Veterinary Financial Service Representative, you will oversee all financial operations related to client accounts. This role demands exceptional communication skills to clarify financial matters and deliver outstanding client service, thereby facilitating a seamless billing process. Your attention to detail will ensure that our clients feel informed and supported throughout their experience with us. Key Responsibilities: Review invoices for services rendered Process payments and refunds Maintain accurate financial records in compliance with company and legal standards Coordinate with pet insurance companies for claims submissions and reimbursement tracking Prepare financial reports Assist clients in understanding payment options, including third-party financing such as CareCredit Collaborate with the veterinary team to ensure effective communication regarding client accounts Provide exceptional customer service by addressing billing inquiries with professionalism and empathy

VERG Brooklyn is actively seeking a dedicated and board-certified Veterinary Internist or residency-trained veterinarian to enhance our expanding Internal Medicine team. Our busy practice is renowned for providing exceptional, compassionate care to clients, patients, and referring veterinarians alike. We pride ourselves on cultivating a collaborative environment where every team member is valued, heard, and committed to improving patient care and outcomes. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant NYC metro area while working alongside a talented and devoted team. Our focus on continuous learning and medical advancement makes this role particularly rewarding. Our facility is recognized as the leading emergency and critical care center in the region, collaborating closely with various specialty departments to guarantee unparalleled care for our hospitalized patients. Our anesthesia department, led by two skilled anesthesiologists, is always ready to support your medical caseload. Additionally, VERG Brooklyn boasts a comprehensive array of specialists across Surgery, Oncology, Neurology, Radiology, and Cardiology. With over 400 local practices referring to us, you'll encounter a diverse and robust caseload from internal transfers and new consultations. Our thriving internship program ensures that all team members are engaged in training through clinical casework, didactic sessions, and direct mentorship. Spanning 12,500 square feet, our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with cutting-edge medical technology to deliver precise and efficient treatments for optimal patient outcomes. Our advanced equipment includes: Siemens Magnetom Symphony 1.5T MRI Toshiba Aquilon 124 slice CT scanner GE OEC 9800 C-Arm Multiple abdominal, cardiac, ER, and anesthesia ultrasound units Comprehensive endoscopic equipment Dedicated treatment area and special procedures room for Internal Medicine Large ICU equipped with a ventilator, multiple Snyder oxygen units, and telemetry Separate canine, feline, and isolation wards Fenced rooftop dog walking area with K9 grass Imagine living in New York City! Brooklyn features a rich cultural scene with an abundance of museums, parks, and historical sites. Our hospital is conveniently located near attractions such as Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, the Brooklyn Bridge, Barclays Center, and the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Experience world-class cultural offerings, diverse dining options, beautiful green spaces, and an energetic community. The area is home to excellent educational institutions and offers numerous recreational activities, making it the perfect setting for both professional and personal growth.

About Pure Paws Veterinary Care Pure Paws Veterinary Care of Clinton Hill serves Brooklyn with a focus on compassionate, high-quality veterinary medicine. The team, including Dr. Imogen Slome, Dr. Liz Burg, and Dr. Torre Mulhbach, provides advanced surgical care, internal medicine, custom wellness plans, and integrative services such as acupuncture. Pet owners across the borough trust Pure Paws for attentive, expert care. Role Overview: Veterinary Practice Manager This full-time position calls for a hands-on leader who can support the veterinary team, optimize daily operations, and foster a positive, collaborative culture. The Practice Manager will help maintain high standards for both patient care and client service. What You Will Bring Composed leadership: Stays calm and focused when challenges arise. Multitasking: Juggles multiple tasks and priorities smoothly. Client focus: Engages confidently with clients who expect clear communication and excellent service. Initiative: Makes decisions independently and takes ownership of outcomes. Growth mindset: Welcomes feedback and seeks to improve processes and skills. Team orientation: Encourages collaboration and inclusivity among staff. Results-driven: Spots areas for improvement and follows through with actionable plans. Organization and detail: Manages time well and maintains accuracy in all tasks. Communication: Handles conflict constructively and communicates clearly with both staff and clients. Technical skills: Comfortable using Microsoft Office, Teams, Slack, and veterinary practice management software. Required Skills and Experience Ability to balance operational demands with the well-being of the team. Strong skills in organization and setting priorities. Experience managing a veterinary practice is a plus. Location This role is based in Brooklyn, NY at Pure Paws Veterinary Care of Clinton Hill.

Are you a passionate and skilled veterinary professional eager to make a profound difference in the lives of animals? Veterinary Emergency & Referral Group (VERG) in Brooklyn is thrilled to announce the enhancement of our inventory services and is actively seeking a talented Overnight Veterinary Technician to join our dedicated team. Your expertise will help us elevate the standard of care for our cherished animal patients. About Us At Veterinary Emergency & Referral Group (VERG) Brooklyn, we are pioneers in providing 24/7 advanced emergency and specialty veterinary care. Our commitment to state-of-the-art medicine in a collaborative, team-oriented environment is unmatched. Here, compassionate professionals work alongside board-certified specialists, devoted to delivering exceptional care with respect and expertise. Join us to be part of a community that values your dedication and supports your professional growth, while making a lasting impact on the lives of pets and their families. Who We’re Searching For Our exemplary team of licensed veterinary technicians forms the core of VERG. As part of our Emergency and Critical Care (ECC) team, you will play a crucial role in providing life-saving medical care. We are looking for top-tier technicians who excel under pressure and are eager to make a real impact in veterinary medicine. Your Responsibilities In this dynamic role, you will be at the forefront of veterinary medicine, managing complex and urgent cases across various departments including Emergency and Critical Care, Surgery, Cardiology, Internal Medicine, Oncology, Radiology, and Neurology. Your tasks will involve stabilizing critical patients, performing advanced monitoring, supporting intensive care treatment plans, and ensuring seamless patient care. This position offers the flexibility of a three-day workweek, providing comprehensive emergency coverage while allowing our dedicated team members a well-deserved four-day break each week.

Join Our Passionate Team at VERG Brooklyn!Are you an enthusiastic recruiter with a passion for veterinary care? VERG Brooklyn is on the lookout for a Veterinary Recruiter for Support Staff to become an integral part of our vibrant team. We pride ourselves on creating a friendly and impactful workplace where you can thrive!As a frontrunner in 24/7 advanced emergency and specialty veterinary care, we are committed to providing state-of-the-art medical services across various specialties, all within a collaborative and compassionate environment. Here, you will work alongside board-certified specialists who share a dedication to treating pets with exceptional care and respect.Your Role:Strategic Sourcing:Leverage online job boards, social media, college directories, and industry networks to attract skilled veterinary assistants, technicians, and various roles.Create innovative sourcing strategies to maintain a pool of qualified candidates for both current and future job openings.Screening and Evaluation:Conduct initial phone or video screenings to evaluate candidates' qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.Coordinate and facilitate onsite interviews with the hospital team, collaborating with management and HR.Partner with the Talent Acquisition team to align candidates with roles that match their skills and career aspirations.Candidate Relationship Management:Foster strong relationships with candidates, guiding them through the recruitment process with transparency and care.Provide timely updates to candidates and hiring managers to ensure a smooth recruitment experience.Administrative Support:Post job openings on various external job boards and maintain listings outside of the ATS.Assist in preparing and presenting job offers promptly.Support hospital teams in navigating our Applicant Tracking System (ATS).

Are you a passionate and skilled veterinary professional eager to enhance the quality of care in veterinary medicine? Join us at Veterinary Emergency & Referral Group (VERG) in Brooklyn as a valued Cardiology Veterinary Technician and contribute to the well-being of our furry patients.About UsVeterinary Emergency & Referral Group (VERG) Brooklyn stands as a premier provider of 24/7 emergency and specialty veterinary services. Our commitment is to deliver cutting-edge medical care within a collaborative, team-focused environment. Here, compassionate professionals unite with board-certified specialists, ensuring that our pets receive the utmost respect and expertise. Become part of a community where your dedication is acknowledged, your professional development is nurtured, and where your everyday contributions profoundly impact the lives of both pets and their families.Position OverviewAs a vital member of our Cardiology team, you will support our board-certified Cardiologist, as well as collaborate with emergency clinicians and specialists from various departments. Your role is essential in delivering life-saving care to our patients.Your ResponsibilitiesIn this fast-paced environment, you will engage in supporting complex and urgent cases, working alongside departments such as Emergency and Critical Care, Surgery, Internal Medicine, Oncology, Radiology, and Neurology. You will assist in stabilizing critical patients, conducting advanced monitoring, implementing intensive care treatment plans, and ensuring seamless patient care.The working hours for this role are Monday through Thursday from 8 AM to 6 PM.

Are you seeking a Critical Care position where your expertise is genuinely appreciated? Do you desire to work in a collaborative hospital environment where your insights are actively sought after? Would you prefer to concentrate solely on critical care medicine without the distractions of managing incoming ER cases? Imagine finishing your shift knowing that another skilled Criticalist is ready to take over seamlessly.If this resonates with you, we believe you would thrive at VERG Brooklyn. You will join a team of four exceptional Criticalists who are kind, collaborative, and supportive, genuinely enjoying their work together.Why Criticalists Choose VERGVERG is a well-established emergency and specialty hospital located in the heart of Brooklyn. Our Critical Care service is at the core of our operations, collaborating closely with an impressive array of specialists across Anesthesia, Internal Medicine, Surgery, Neurology, Oncology, Radiology, Cardiology, and more.We receive referrals from over 400 local practices, ensuring a varied and fulfilling caseload that will utilize your skillset. Our large critical care team provides ample support, and our thriving internship program offers numerous opportunities to teach, mentor, and influence the next generation of specialists.What Defines Our Culture:Open communication and active listening among team members.Genuine collaboration beyond mere buzzwords.A commitment to learning and professional growth.Regularly scheduled hospital-wide M&M and Journal Club sessions, as well as service-specific Journal Club rounds.A team that enjoys coming to work every day.A Supportive and Healthy WorkplaceWe believe that Criticalists excel when they are supported both professionally and personally. Thus, we offer:A schedule designed for optimal work-life balance.Smooth case transitions between Criticalists, allowing you to leave at the end of your shift.An on-site Veterinary Social Worker dedicated to supporting the well-being of our entire team.A community that respects your expertise and genuinely enjoys collaboration.This is a place where you can practice excellent medicine while prioritizing your well-being.A Hospital Designed for Advanced MedicineOur modern 12,500-square-foot facility is fully equipped for your convenience. We offer:Siemens 1.5T MRIToshiba Aquilon 128-slice CTMultiple ultrasound units (ER, ICU, abdominal, cardiac, anesthesia)GE OEC 9800 C-armA comprehensive suite of equipment ensuring top-notch patient care.

Join our dynamic team at Alliance Animal Health as a Veterinary Medicine Student Extern. This is an exciting opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in a supportive and innovative environment. As an extern, you will work alongside experienced veterinarians and staff, assisting in the care of animals and learning about various veterinary practices.Your contributions will be invaluable as you engage in real-world scenarios, enhancing your skills and knowledge in veterinary medicine.

About Veterinary Emergency & Referral Group (VERG) VERG Brooklyn delivers 24/7 emergency and specialty veterinary care in Brooklyn, NY. Our team includes board-certified specialists and experienced staff who work together to provide advanced medical services and compassionate care for pets and their families. Why Work With Us? Growth and Development: VERG supports ongoing training and career advancement, helping team members build skills and knowledge over time. Supportive Colleagues: Join a community that values teamwork, encouragement, and shared success, even during challenging moments. Work-Life Balance: Our benefits are designed to support your well-being and recognize the dedication you bring to patient care. Benefits Competitive salary Flexible scheduling Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance FSA and HSA options with company contributions Interest-free health and veterinary payment account 401k with company match Paid time off and floating holidays Uniform allowance Discounts on pet care and veterinary services And more Role Overview: Client Service Representative The Client Service Representative (CSR) serves as a key connection between clients and the veterinary team. This role manages financial interactions with clients and supports the daily flow of the practice. Responsibilities include: Checking patients in and out Handling phone calls and client communications Scheduling appointments Delivering attentive customer service Facilitating clear communication between clients and the veterinary staff Location: Brooklyn, NY

Join our dedicated team at Alliance Animal Health as a Licensed Veterinary Technician! We are seeking a passionate and skilled individual to provide exceptional care to our patients and support our veterinary staff in delivering top-notch veterinary services.As a Licensed Veterinary Technician, you will be responsible for performing a variety of duties including assisting in surgeries, conducting physical examinations, administering medications, and educating pet owners on proper animal care. Your expertise will play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of our furry patients.