Dr. Jacquie Pankatz would like to give a shout out to the team at Mountain Vista Veterinary Hospital and all the veterinary hospitals in the region.
"We are your family's 'other doctor' and we are working hard to meet the needs of our patients during these trying times," said Pankatz.
Pankatz, a veterinarian the owner of Mountain Vista, said vet services have been limited to urgent care only, but they remain busy, sometimes operating with a "skeleton staff."
"The phones never stop ringing with questions from worried pet owners or clients who need much-needed prescription refills for their pets," she said. "At times we are all overwhelmed, but we are doing our best."
There is now a pet telehealth service for phone and video consultations, but in this hands-on industry treatments still have to be done in person while pet owners wait in their cars.
"End of life care is particularly challenging as we must balance the safety of our staff with the emotional needs of our clients," said Pankatz.
"I just want to say that my staff has been amazing and have really pulled together in these trying times."
CollingwoodToday would like your help in recognizing local essential workers from health care workers, physicians, cashiers and delivery drivers. If you'd like to say thanks to someone you know, please send a photo, their name, their job title, and your words of thanks to [email protected]. Please only send photos and information with permission.
