Veterinary hospital in Connecticut earns Level 1 certification

Cornell University Veterinary Specialists (CUVS) in Stamford, Connecticut, has received Level I certification from the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society (VECCS), distinguishing CUVS as a facility at the highest level of veterinary trauma, emergency and critical care. CUVS is the only level-I facility in the tri-state area and one of only 20 nationwide. VECCS certification identifies hospitals that meet standards and guidelines. The goal is to raise the standard of care while also increasing public and professional awareness in the field of veterinary emergency and critical patient care. This certification program identifies three levels (I through III) based on criteria including specialists, clinical staff, equipment, capabilities and operating hours. "VECCS certification is a terrific step forward for the specialty," says Dr. Susan Hackner, CUVS' chief medical officer and chief operating officer. "It creates a set of standards to which facilities can aspire and work toward; and it enables pet owners to make educated decisions about their pet's care, especially in emergent and critical situations in which these decisions can have significant impact." A Level I Emergency and Critical Care facility is a 24-hour acute care facility with resources and specialty training necessary to provide sophisticated emergency and ICU patient care.