Whether it’s the quiet presence of a cat curled at your feet or the playful energy of a puppy dashing through the yard, pets bring warmth, joy, and comfort to our everyday lives. Research supports what pet lovers already know. According to the American Pet Products Association, 97% of pet owners consider their animals an integral part of the family, and studies link pet ownership to lower stress, improved heart health, and greater social connection. While our pets give us so much, it’s our job to return the favor with care that keeps them healthy, safe, and thriving.
That’s where the team at Tulsa’s Animal Emergency Center (AEC) comes in. Founded in 1987 by a group of local veterinarians, AEC was established as a clinic focused exclusively on emergency care to provide support for pets throughout the Tulsa community. Nearly four decades later, AEC remains privately owned and true to its original purpose. The clinic is open 24/7, every day of the year, and staffed entirely by professionals who are solely dedicated to emergency medicine.
“It takes a certain kind of person to handle the pace, the pressure, the heartbreak, and still show up every day with compassion,” says the hospital’s director, who has worked at AEC for nearly thirty years. That compassion extends beyond their four-legged patients, as the team understands that emergency visits can be just as overwhelming for pet parents. They take the time to explain diagnoses, treatment plans, and next steps, making sure pet owners feel informed and supported through every decision.
There are, of course, the cases that remain etched in memory and reaffirm why this work is so meaningful. One is the story of Chester Brown, a bloodhound who was accidentally locked inside a garden shed during the peak of a sweltering summer heat wave. By the time he arrived at the clinic, he was in grave condition. His survival was uncertain, but thanks to a week of intensive, around-the-clock care and a devoted family who visited him each day, Chester made a slow but steady recovery. When he finally stood up on his own and walked out of the clinic, tail wagging and eyes bright, it was nothing short of remarkable. "That one still sticks with me," the director reflects. Although AEC is built to respond in moments of crisis, the team is quick to stress the importance of prevention as a first line of defense. The foundation of a healthy, happy life for any pet begins with the basics: annual veterinary checkups, a nourishing diet, regular exercise, and meaningful connection with their people. “They’re deeply social creatures,” the director explains. “Spending time with them, talking to them, simply being there…it all matters more than people realize.” While the hope is that you’ll never face an emergency, knowing that the Animal Emergency Center stands ready can bring immense peace of mind. They do more than treat symptoms; they honor the deep bond between you and your pet, seeing each animal as a cherished family member.
"Spending time with them, talking to them…it matters more than people realize."