Transforming Grief into Action: The Story Behind Ruby Veterinary Urgent Care
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Jason Virdi recalls the overwhelming anxiety he felt in the backseat of an Uber as he and his partner hurried their dog, Ruby, to the veterinary clinic.
The couple was persistent; a complication from a routine surgery had led to a severe lung infection. This incident was just one in a series of health issues that began with complications from Ruby’s spay procedure.
At that moment, Virdi, who was working in finance at the time, found himself focused on problem-solving. He worried about whether their driver was speeding or if they would encounter delays due to construction. Meanwhile, his partner Elizabeth Ruocco was visibly upset.
Upon arriving at the clinic, a team of veterinary professionals quickly sprang into action—administering oxygen and providing urgent care for Ruby.
“Once we got her there, I felt substantially relieved,” Virdi shared.
Jason Virdi and Elizabeth Ruocco with their dog Ruby in 2021. Following her passing, virdi established his urgent care clinic in her honor.
JASON VIRDI/PROVIDED
Despite receiving excellent medical attention at the clinic, Ruby’s condition did not improve; she passed away approximately 24 hours later.
A New Beginning After Heartbreak
This heartbreaking loss motivated Virdi to take action. In April 2023, he launched Ruby veterinary urgent Care with support from Chief Medical Officer Dr. Melissa Ehrlich.
“I wanted to honor Ruby in a way that held deeper significance,” said Virdi.
Ruby Veterinary Urgent Care,located at 10710 State Bridge Highway,specializes in providing immediate care for common ailments affecting cats and dogs alike.
The Role of Urgent Care Clinics
this facility operates similarly to human urgent care centers according to Dr. Ehrlich; it can deliver life-saving treatments but primarily focuses on conditions requiring prompt attention without being life-threatening instantly.
- Commonly treated issues include ear infections and skin irritations;
- Digestive problems like vomiting or diarrhea;
- The ingestion of foreign objects;
- Neurological disorders such as seizures or difficulty walking;
- Bones fractures;
- Palliative end-of-life care among others.
(Photo by JON WILCOX)
A comprehensive Approach to Pet Health
The facility is equipped with advanced technology including X-ray machines and ultrasound equipment alongside an onsite pharmacy capable of handling various medications.
A dedicated team comprising around ten nurses supports four veterinarians who see patients promptly after they call.
Together they focus on diagnosing health issues effectively while addressing underlying causes.
As an example: dogs frequently experiencing gastrointestinal distress may suffer from endocrine disorders affecting cortisol production by adrenal glands—blood tests can help identify these conditions so pets receive appropriate treatment.
“You give them medication and watch them start feeling better,” noted Dr. Ehrlich.
Virdi has also implemented an employee ownership model within his practice.
However, Dr. Ehrlich pointed out that those working within veterinary medicine often face higher rates of mental health challenges due partly because they are deeply invested emotionally in their work.
“Our philosophy is simple: if our hospital thrives then we want every member of our team thriving too,” stated Virdi.
Pioneering Change Within Animal Healthcare
Before joining forces with Virdi for this venture Dr.Ehrlich worked extensively within emergency animal healthcare settings where she thrived amidst what she describes as “organized chaos.”
As earning her doctorate from UGA back in 2008 she discovered her passion lies not onyl treating animals but also acting like a medical detective solving complex cases requiring speedy thinking skills.
Previously emergency clinics were scarce leading many pet owners facing less critical situations unable access timely assistance which made saving lives even more challenging than necessary.
According to the american Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), there has been meaningful growth recently regarding urgent-care practices modeled after human walk-in clinics offering swift solutions for non-critical concerns frequently enough faster than traditional vet appointments.
While these facilities do not replace regular vet visits entirely—they fill crucial gaps needed during emergencies according AVMA reports released earlier this year.
Cultivating Compassionate Connections With Pets And Owners Alike
Providing exceptional treatment represents just one aspect; ensuring both animal patients feel comfortable along with reassuring their human companions holds equal importance emphasized by Dr.Ehrlich herself.
This begins through hiring professionals who possess genuine love towards every creature entering through those doors—a sentiment echoed throughout staff members’ experiences growing up surrounded by pets themselves!
As children many employees dreamed about having animals around them constantly forming emotional bonds early-on which shaped how they approach caregiving today!
(Photo by JON WILCOX)
Nurse Keri Wheeler expressed “I strive equally hard keeping clients informed just as much I do caring for furry friends.”
She believes clear dialogue alleviates anxiety allowing families understand what’s happening during visits thus fostering trust between caregivers & pet owners alike!
“We prioritize education alongside hand-holding throughout processes” added Wheeler emphasizing importance building rapport over time together!
A Shining Future Ahead For The Clinic And Its Community
Just months post-launch,Ruby veterinary Urgent Care has already captured significant interest among local pet owners amassing over forty five-star reviews online showcasing heartfelt testimonials praising compassionate service received here!
one client remarked “This place truly embodies everything you’d hope find when seeking help—it felt like family!” reflecting sentiments shared widely across community members since opening day!
Virdis finds immense joy witnessing success unfold before him knowing legacy continues onward even after losing beloved companion—he recently adopted another bernedoodle named Rosie while welcoming new daughter into family too!
Plans remain aspiring moving forward aiming expand operations further under same name honoring memory forever etched hearts everyone involved journey ahead together!
“Big dreams lie ahead!” concluded Jason excitedly looking toward future possibilities awaiting exploration!