The Colorado State University (CSU) Veterinary Health System is expanding its facilities to enhance emergency and critical care for pets. The new emergency and critical care unit in the Veterinary Hospital and Education Complex is designed to provide urgent, complex, and lifesaving treatment while ensuring a supportive environment for patients and their families.
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A key focus of the design is to keep pet owners involved in their animals' care. The facility features more exam rooms and an open-concept treatment area that allows owners to stay with their pets during initial assessments. Dr. Amanda Cavanaugh, an associate professor of emergency and critical care, noted that this setup enables owners to interact with the care team and receive updates in real time.
Additionally, a dedicated family visitation space has been created for owners to spend time with critically ill pets in a quiet setting while the care team monitors their treatment. Dr. Kristen Zersen, also an associate professor of emergency and critical care, emphasized that this space underscores their commitment to both high-quality patient care and family support.
The upgrades include advanced technologies, more oxygen cages, and dedicated procedure rooms, which collectively enhance the hospital's capacity for treating critically ill animals. Cavanaugh remarked that these improvements align the physical space with the medical capabilities of the team, allowing for more effective advanced care.
Stress reduction for patients was another priority in the facility’s design. Features such as a dedicated emergency entrance, calming color schemes, and adjustable kennel lighting contribute to a more comfortable environment for animals. Overall, these enhancements aim to improve the CSU Veterinary Health System's capacity for exceptional emergency and critical care while also serving as a training ground for future veterinary leaders.
The new emergency and critical care unit is set to open in late Fall 2026.