In the bustling cityscape of New York, a compassionate veterinarian, Dr. Amy Attas, has been redefining pet care with her unique approach. For over three decades, Dr. Attas has traversed the urban jungle, not in a clinic, but by making house calls, offering personalized care to the city’s beloved pets. Her journey, filled with heartwarming tales and challenging encounters, has now been immortalized in her memoir, “Pets and the City,” showcasing the profound bond between humans and their animal companions.
A Veterinarian’s Odyssey
Dr. Attas’s career began with dreams of rural adventures, inspired by the storied vet James Herriot. However, her path led her to the heart of Manhattan, where she found her calling in the apartments and lofts of pet owners seeking a more intimate veterinary experience. Her days are a mosaic of diverse cases, from treating celebrity pets to aiding those owned by the city’s elderly and disabled.
The memoir reveals not just the medical challenges she faces, but also the societal attitudes towards pet care. She recounts tales of owners resistant to neutering, the lavish lifestyles of celebrity pets, and the occasional humorous mishap. Through it all, Dr. Attas maintains a deep respect for the animals and their owners, understanding the unique place pets hold in the family unit.
The Human-Animal Connection
Dr. Attas’s stories delve into the emotional aspects of veterinary medicine. She shares the joy of successful treatments and the sorrow of saying goodbye to aging pets. Her narrative is a testament to the resilience of animals and the lengths to which people will go to ensure their well-being. The book also serves as a guide, offering advice on pet care and highlighting the importance of understanding the needs of different species.
Her experiences underscore the evolving nature of veterinary services, with house calls becoming increasingly popular. This shift reflects a broader trend towards concierge services, catering to the busy lives of New Yorkers. Dr. Attas’s practice, City Pets, began as a novel concept but quickly grew into a sought-after service, illustrating the demand for such personalized care.
Innovations in Veterinary Care
The memoir is not just a collection of anecdotes; it’s a reflection on the advancements in veterinary medicine. Dr. Attas discusses the technological and methodological changes that have transformed pet care over the years. She emphasizes the role of preventive medicine and the impact of early diagnosis on the quality of life for pets.
The book also touches on the business side of running a veterinary practice, the logistics of house calls, and the collaboration with other professionals. Dr. Attas’s approach is a blend of old-school bedside manner with modern medical expertise, creating a model for future veterinarians to follow.
