Carolina Animal Specialty & Emergency
Carolina Animal Specialty & Emergency is an emergency & critical care and internal medicine practice in Hickory, NC, led by a DACVIM-credentialed specialist. Procedures include TPLO Surgery, Physical rehabilitation, and Radioiodine (I-131) therapy.
About
Carolina Animal Specialty & Emergency is a 24/7 hospital providing emergency care and specialty referral services for pets in the Catawba Valley area. The facility is staffed by board-certified specialists in fields including surgery, internal medicine, and dermatology, supported by a team of critical care veterinarians. The hospital offers advanced diagnostics, surgical procedures, and ongoing management for complex medical conditions.
The clinic operates as a resource for both pet owners and primary care veterinarians, offering immediate triage, critical stabilization, and specialty consultations. They accept emergency walk-ins and referrals, providing specialized support when a pet's regular veterinarian is unavailable or when a case requires advanced expertise. The hospital is equipped to handle urgent care, behavioral assessments, and physical rehabilitation services.
Surgical team
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Scott Helms
DVM, DABVP
Dr. Helms graduated from North Carolina State’s College of Veterinary Medicine where he is a member of the Phi Zeta Veterinary Honor Society.
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Laura Haysom
DVM, DACVIM
Dr. Laura Haysom received her veterinary degree from Murdoch University in Perth, Western Australia.
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Gregory D. Herndon
DVM, DAVCS-SA
After completing his residency, he passed his board-certifying exam in small animal surgery in 2003.
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Joseph Sawdy
DVM, MS
Dr. Joseph Sawdy completed his training at the Ohio State University.
Equipment
- Diagnostic Imaging
Photos
Frequently asked questions
- Does Carolina Animal Specialty & Emergency offer surgical treatment for cranial cruciate ligament injuries?
- Yes, the hospital performs TPLO surgery, which stands for tibial plateau leveling osteotomy, to treat cranial cruciate ligament injuries in dogs.
- What options are available for treating feline hyperthyroidism at this facility?
- The hospital provides radioiodine (I-131) therapy as a treatment for feline hyperthyroidism, which is described as a safe and effective cure for the condition.
- Does the hospital provide care for pets with behavioral concerns?
- Yes, the facility offers comprehensive behavioral assessments and treatment plans to address issues such as anxiety, aggression, and other behavioral concerns in pets.
- Is there 24/7 coverage for emergency veterinary needs?
- The hospital provides around-the-clock emergency veterinary care for unexpected illnesses or injuries, ensuring that an on-site critical care veterinarian and a full support team are available at all times.