NEW YORK (AP) — Growing up in the city, Amy Attas had aspirations of living in the countryside and caring for animals like the famous veterinarian James Herriot depicted in “All Creatures Great and Small.”
However, instead of venturing into rural areas, Attas found herself serving the streets of Manhattan for the past 32 years as a dedicated house call veterinarian.
Throughout her career, she has encountered various challenges, from facing aggressive dogs to dealing with injuries caused by her feline patients.
In addition to handling animal emergencies, Attas has also worked with difficult human clients and cared for pets owned by celebrities like Joan Rivers, Cher, and Billy Joel.
She has compiled her experiences into a memoir titled “Pets and the City,” which will be released on June 18, sharing anecdotes and offering advice for fellow animal lovers.
Attas didn’t have a specific business plan when she first started her City Pets practice, but it quickly gained popularity among pet owners in New York City. Nowadays, in-home pet care services have become more common, with many veterinarians offering house call services.
Attas begins her day early in the morning, accompanied by her nurses, and visits multiple homes daily to provide care to dogs and cats. She has seen a wide range of pets, including those owned by famous personalities like Wayne Gretzky, Steve Martin, and Kevin Kline.
Despite the misconception that house call veterinary services are only for the wealthy, Attas emphasizes that she also works with clients from various backgrounds, including seniors and not-for-profit organizations.
She believes that the intimate experience of home visits allows her to provide better care for animals, as she can observe their living environment and address any potential dangers or risks.
Throughout her career, Attas has not only cared for animals but also supported and assisted their human companions, sometimes intervening in situations where pet owners needed emotional or practical support.
Overall, Attas sees her work as a rewarding and essential service for both pets and their owners, ensuring the well-being and comfort of animals in the bustling city environment.
