Intensive Care Unit

Dawn Crandell, DVM, DVSc, DACVECC; Judy Brown DVM, MSc, DACVECC; Francesca Di Mauro DVM, DACVECC

Life-saving interventions, monitoring and therapy for the critically ill pet
Diagnosis, monitoring and management of shock and hypotension
Treatment of severe acute respiratory emergencies requiring:
- Oxygen supplementation
- High flow nasal oxygen therapy
- Mechanical ventilation
Acute treatment of cardiac emergencies including congestive heart failure and arrhythmias
Stabilization of pets with severe trauma
Administration of blood products for pets with anemia or coagulopathies
Initial treatment and control of neurologic emergencies including seizures
Diagnosis and therapy for toxicities
Correction of severe electrolyte disturbances
Intensive management of acute kidney injury
Treatment of environmental emergencies including heat stroke and hypothermia
Use of cage-side ultrasound to ensure timely and accurate diagnosis of emergent patients

‘The heart of the hospital’, providing essential support to patients from all services.
Overseen by three board-certified diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care
Individuals with these credentials are required to undertake a rigorous 3-year residency program in emergency and critical care in addition to their standard veterinary training.
Staffed by two ICU-trained registered veterinary technicians 24 hours/day
Ability to provide mechanical ventilation and high flow nasal oxygen with state-of-the-art equipment
Portable ultrasound unit to implement ‘FAST scans’ in diagnosis and management of critically ill pet
Close collaboration and transparent communication with our other specialty service clinicians ensures best quality patient care
Direct support to the emergency service
Clear and timely communication with pet owners and referring veterinarians
All team members trained in techniques to reduce patient stress and fear, alleviate pain and provide conscientious nursing care

Veterinary Intensive Care Unit in Toronto