Veterinarians, vet technicians, practice managers, rescuers, behaviorists, nutritionists, trainers, volunteers, and other animal professionals are the backbone of pet ownership. Helping pets and their families live in harmony and health together.
Catster wants to highlight some of these underrated champions of the animal world—which we like to refer to as Heroes of The Pet World.
We interview some of the most inspiring veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, animal shelters, and rehabilitation organizations around the world to share all the wonderful and often brutal experiences they face while working to help , heal, guide, revive, and protect our furry family members.
These are the stories of unsung animal superheroes!
Meet Dr. Cherry Choi, Lead Veterinarian at Sydney Veterinary Emergency & Specialists (SVES).
Mission
In your own words, what is the mission and purpose of Sydney Veterinary Emergency & Specialists (SVES)?
Sydney Veterinary Emergency & Specialists (SVES) is dedicated to providing the highest level of emergency and specialist care to pets in need. Our mission is to offer compassionate, comprehensive, and the best medical recommendations and treatments to improve the lives of pets and support their families during critical times. We strive to be a trusted partner to the pet community, offering exceptional veterinary care at all times.
What is your individual mission or goal, as a veterinary professional and as a person?
For me, it’s making sure they’re comfortable and getting the attention they need. Personally, I aim to continue to grow my skills, stay updated on the latest advances in veterinary medicine, and promote animal welfare. My goal is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of pets and their owners, one at a time.
Everyday Experience
What is it like to be a veterinary professional in Australia and at SVES?
Being a vet in Sydney, especially at SVES, is both challenging and rewarding. The fast-paced environment of emergency and specialist care keeps you on your toes, and you never know what might come through the next door. We are fortunate to work in a vibrant city with a strong community of pet lovers, and at SVES, we have access to state-of-the-art technology and an expert team that makes tackling the toughest cases possible.
How big is your team?
Our team is quite extensive, including specialists in various fields, emergency vets, dedicated nurses, and support staff. We have a collaborative environment where everyone plays an important role in patient care. In total, our team consists of more than 80 individuals who work together to ensure the best results for our patients.
Do you have staff shortages and how do you deal with them?
We are fortunate to have a strong and dedicated team. However, many veterinary practices sometimes face staff shortages due to the high demand for veterinary services, especially in emergency care. We manage this by prioritizing cases based on urgency, supporting each other as a team, and continually recruiting skilled professionals who are passionate about veterinary medicine. We also emphasize work-life balance to retain our staff and maintain high morale.
How many animals on average do you help each week?
We see hundreds of animals every week. Our emergency department is busy 24/7, and we also have scheduled appointments for specialist departments. Volume may vary, but our commitment to the well-being of each patient remains constant.
Challenges and Rewards
What is the most difficult part of your job? How do you handle euthanasia and patient loss?
The hardest part of being a veterinarian is dealing with patient loss and providing compassionate support to pet owners when making the heartbreaking decision to euthanize their beloved pets. It’s not easy, but I remind myself that euthanasia is also a “treatment option” to avoid further suffering. We support pet owners through this process, offering empathy and understanding. It’s important to take time to process these moments, lean on our team for support, and focus on the positive impact we’ve made on pets’ lives.
What are some of the biggest challenges your organization faces?
Some of the biggest challenges include managing the high volume of cases, the emotional toll on staff, and staying on top of advances in veterinary medicine. Additionally, making sure pet owners are educated and prepared for emergencies can be challenging, but it’s something we’re constantly working on.
What is the most rewarding part of doing what you do?
The most rewarding part is seeing a pet recover and go home with their family. Knowing that our work directly helps save lives and make a difference for families is incredibly rewarding. Every positive result, no matter how small, reminds us why we do what we do.
tomorrow
What are Sydney Veterinary Emergency & Specialists’ main goals for the future?
Our primary goals include expanding our services to reach more pets in need, continuing to invest in state-of-the-art equipment and training, and maintaining our standard of excellence in veterinary care. We also aim to foster a supportive environment for our staff and further engage with the community to promote pet health and education
Stories
What are some accomplishments or specific animals that have made a big impact on you as a person or on your team?
There are countless stories of animals that touch our hearts. One that stands out is the case of a dog who came in after a severe accident and was not expected to survive. Through intensive care and the combined efforts of three of our departments and round-the-clock teams, he recovered and was able to return home to his family. Stories like these inspire us to keep pushing our limits and do our best for our patients.
How to Help
How can the general public help make your life easier?
The public can help by being proactive about their pets’ health, having regular check-ups with their local general practice vets, staying up-to-date on preventative care, understanding what an emergency is , and reaching out for advice when needed.
If someone wants to visit, join, support or volunteer with Sydney Veterinary Emergency & Specialists (SVES) where can they find more information and get in touch?
Dr. Cherry Choi
BVSc MANZCVS (Small Animal Surgery) GC-SAECC
Leading ECC vet
Sydney Veterinary Emergency and Specialists
675 Botany Rd, Rosebery NSW 2018
P: 02 9197 5800
