From Furballs to Brownstones: A Vet’s NYC Adventures in ‘Pets and the City’

Living in the bustling city of New York, Amy Attas had always harbored a deep-seated dream of venturing into the serene countryside, echoing the sentiments of James Herriot from the classic “All Creatures Great and Small.” However, her reality was a delightful blend of healing animals, navigating through the mischievous antics of humans, and catering to the whims of pampered celebrity-owned pets, including the beloved dogs of the iconic Joan Rivers, whom Attas fondly considered a friend.

With her heart firmly in place for pug-loving endeavors, Attas embarked on her journey with City Pets without a grandiose business plan, armed only with her supplies and a willingness to traverse the city using subway rides and taxis. While some veterinarians nationwide embrace the full-time house-call model like Attas, others opt for traditional brick-and-mortar establishments but extend their services for end-of-life care within the comforts of a pet’s home setting.

During a recent routine, Attas and her trusty nurse, Jeanine Lunz, maximized their in-car time by fielding phone calls, organizing schedules, and multitasking to address the myriad responsibilities that accompany a veterinary practice, even within the fleeting moments between patient examinations. Despite the convenience and personalized touch of house calls, Attas noted that her services may cost about 30% more than those offered by conventional clinics.

Throughout her extensive career, Attas has crossed paths with over 7,000 animals, extending her compassionate care to the furry companions of notable figures such as Joel, Wayne Gretzky, Steve Martin, and Kevin Kline. Beyond the realm of celebrity clientele, Attas ardently dispels the misconception that house calls are exclusively reserved for the affluent, emphasizing the inclusivity and accessibility of her services to pet owners from all walks of life.

For Attas, the intrinsic value of home visits lies in fostering deep connections with her clients and their beloved pets, ensuring that she never becomes too preoccupied to overlook the emotional nuances that accompany her profession. Recalling a poignant moment from her experiences, Attas shared the transformative story of a grieving 90-year-old woman who had lost her cherished canine companion, only to find solace in adopting a senior dog – a poignant gesture orchestrated by Attas under the guise of fostering, illuminating the profound impact of companionship in times of loss and despair.

In a world where compassion meets professionalism, Amy Attas epitomizes the essence of veterinary care through her unwavering dedication to tending to the physical and emotional well-being of animals while forging meaningful connections with their human counterparts.