Absecon Veterinary Hospital

195 S New Rd, Alosecon, NJ • 609-646-7013 • www.abseconvet.com

On any given day from fall to spring, Absecon Veterinary Hospital & Emergency Service may see upwards of 100 patients walking - or often, being carried - through its doors. Once summer rolls around, that number can grow exponentially, a testament to the practice's vast services, skilled staff and extensive certifications.

"Truly, this hospital is one-of-a-kind," Dr. Christopher Lambert said. "We hold ourselves to a higher standard and it's a great place to work."

Chris and colleague Dr. Rachel Scotland Ashenbach are two of the 15 veterinarians on staff at Absecon Veterinary Hospital. Just like a general practitioner for humans, Chris, Rachel and their coworkers see many animals for wellness checkups and vaccinations. They work on weight issues, teeth problems and skin troubles.

"We're a one stop shop for these pets," Rachel said.

The hospital also offers emergency services, a facet that was expanded in 2020.

"We'd be seeing our scheduled cases and something really critical would come in. General cases would be put on hold," Rachel explained. "We decided to expand because of the needs of the community."

While routine visits may get a patient in and out in 30 minutes, emergency visits typically take longer due to bloodwork, X-rays and other diagnostics.

But whether it's a well visit or an emergency, the hospital accepts walk-in patients from anywhere, which can especially give area visitors peace of mind in the summer.

"We're seasonal, too, just like a lot of the shore businesses," Rachel said.

A Brigantine native, Rachel is familiar with this seasonal nature of the region - and of Absecon Veterinary Hospital in particular. She started working as a kennel attendant at the facility when she was a teenager.

"For me, it's been a family for a long time," Rachel said. "I love working here."

Over the last five years, the staff grew from 40 to 120 employees. This was when Chris joined the practice, moving to nearby Margate from Rhode Island in 2020. This substantial growth has enabled the practice to continue providing its many great services, in addition to offering even more. Anesthesia is now state-of-the-art, and the facility is able to hospitalize more critical cases. They also care for exotic animals, such as guinea pigs and rabbits.

Another way Absecon Veterinary Hospital sets itself apart is with specialized certifications. The facility has been an American Animal Hospital Association Accredited hospital for more than 30 years, which is a rigorous nationwide program that ensures veterinary practice is following industry standards. Every staff member is Fear Free certified, enabling them to better handle and treat pets in a way that lessens fear, anxiety and stress. The hospital is also rated a Cat Friendly Gold facility by the American Association of Feline Practitioners, which focuses on ensuring cats can have a low-stress and comfortable vet visit.

So, what does Absecon Veterinary Hospital not do?

"Wildlife is a big one," Christopher said. "We direct them to the proper wildlife rehabilitator."

Farm animals are another no - for the most part. Ducks and chickens may be an exception.

"Sometimes they're not a farm animal.They're a person's pet," Chris said.

At Absecon Veterinary Hospital, teamwork truly makes the dream work for their furry and fuzzy patients - but it's not only teamwork among the staff. They work closely with owners because, as Rachel pointed out, the owners know their pets best.

"Honestly, owners are so in tune with their animals. They're the best ones to tell us if they are back to themselves or feeling better," she said.

"We truly are there to serve the pets and the people," Chris added. "We make decisions together and we do what's best for that pet and their person."