To kick off a new series of interviews with community members,
Lifestyles sat down with Dr. Laura Richards-Simmons of E-MASH, an
emergency mobile veterinary clinic based in Gilroy.
What sort of gadgets are in the E-MASH van?
To kick off a new series of interviews with community members, Lifestyles sat down with Dr. Laura Richards-Simmons of E-MASH, an emergency mobile veterinary clinic based in Gilroy.
What sort of gadgets are in the E-MASH van?
We have an x-ray machine, an oxygen cage, scales, medicines, an EKG/blood pressure machine, a lab and a separate surgical suite. People are always impressed because there’s so much equipment. I’ve got things in there that a lot of clinics don’t have.
Who goes with you on calls?
One of my two assistants and Peekaboo (a two-year-old, one-eyed white Pekinese).
What kind of people call you?
Sometimes they’re elderly or else have trouble getting their animal in the car because it’s a large dog or something. And some have animals who don’t do well in the car – cats mostly.
What kind of mileage does this thing get?
Well, it’s pretty heavy, so it’s not exactly great. I get about nine miles to the gallon.
Ever rescue any of your patients?
Peekaboo. Her owners were going to put her down because her eye popped out. I have a horse that’s a rescue off the track … a few rescue kitties … some goats. I think I need to stop now!
For emergencies or to set up an appointment, you can reach Dr. Richards-Simmons at (408) 847-1122.
