Our Story: Compassionate Care for Pets and Our Team
Coastal Animal Referral Emergency (CARE) was founded in 2021 by Dr. Melissa Krause, a Seaford, Virginia native and experienced veterinarian. The goal was to create a different kind of veterinary practice—a beacon of growth and medical advancement for its staff and community.
Dr. Krause saw the toll that veterinary work could take and dreamed of a place where both pets and team members thrived. Inspired to create a practice that prioritizes both exceptional patient care and team well-being, she established CARE during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic. Her vision was to provide high-quality veterinary care while supporting the mental and physical health of the team and maintaining strong relationships with referring veterinarians.
A Beacon of Growth and Medical Advancement
Our team is constantly guided by our values:
- Education: Staying current on the latest advancements keeps pets healthy.
- Reliability: You can count on us to be there for your pet's needs.
- Compassionate: We treat your pet with the same love and care you do.
- Patience: We understand every pet is unique and take the time to build trust.
- Understanding: We listen to your concerns and work together to find the best solution.
- Integrity: We are honest and transparent in everything we do.
At CARE, we take care of pets and our people. Veterinary professionals are among the most compassionate and skilled in the medical field but also face fatigue and burnout. Our philosophy is to create a supportive, safe work environment that promotes mental and physical well-being through a healthy work-life balance.
We believe that by taking care of our team, they can continue to deliver the compassionate, life-saving care our patients and clients deserve. Contact us today to learn more about us.