Animal ER of University Park moves to bigger facility, adds 24/7 service

An emergency veterinary practice near University Town Center recently relocated across the street, where it has more than doubled in size, and it is now a 24/7 operation.

Animal ER of University Park officially opened its new facility at 8440 Cooper Creek Blvd. in April. The new practice spans 5,000 square feet in a standalone space. The previous location was about 2,000 square feet within a strip mall.

The move will help meet the growing demand for emergency veterinary care in the community, according to a spokesperson. Along with relocating, the business invested “significantly” in its diagnostic, treatment and monitoring equipment, the spokesperson says, declining to disclose the investment required in the upgraded facility.

Having more space has allowed for increased capacity. The new facility has six exam rooms, versus four in its predecessor, and enables the Animal ER of University Park to have dedicated waiting areas and wards for both dogs and cats. In addition, the veterinary practice offers advanced medical facilities including an operating room, special procedures room and an ICU ward with Snyder oxygen cages.

Animal ER of University Park also hired four additional support staff to facilitate round-the-clock care, a spokesperson says.

“This move represents an exciting new chapter for Animal ER of University Park,” Caroline McQuillan, hospital director for Animal ER of University Park, says in a statement. “We are committed to providing exceptional emergency and urgent care, and this new space allows us to expand our capabilities while ensuring a more comfortable experience for pets and their families.”

Animal ER of University Park was founded in 2002 to provide emergency veterinary care in Manatee and north Sarasota counties. It serves common household pets, including cats and dogs, and facilitates wildlife intakes for local rehabilitation organizations, except for foxes, raccoons and coyotes. Pets are seen on a first-come, first-served basis, with more critical patients receiving priority care. While the business does not take appointments, it encourages calling before visiting.