Veterinary Referral Center

Firnie came to us unable to walk, after a devastating 140-foot fall with significant injuries to both her front and back limbs. Our team performed a thorough evaluation and ultimately guided her through two major surgeries to repair the damage and restore function to her legs. With the support of her community, she was able to get the care she needed and make a full recovery. She showed remarkable resilience every step of her healing journey. Today, Firnie is thriving and is back to running and hiking, living her life to the fullest. We’re grateful to be part of stories like hers, where advanced care, a dedicated team, and community support come together to create a meaningful outcome.

Diagnosed with severe hip dysplasia, Koda ultimately needed both of his hips replaced. At the time, he was in a shelter, and Daniel and Ishee chose to adopt him with the intention of helping him receive the specialized treatment he needed. With support from WAMAL and community members who rallied behind him, his surgeries became possible. He was brought to VRCCO to see Dr. Dujowich for treatment, and with the help of longtime colleague Dr. Aiken, two successful hip replacement surgeries gave Koda a new lease on life. Koda’s journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together for an animal in need. If stories like Koda’s inspire you, consider supporting local animal organizations, including Pets Forward, that help give dogs like him a second chance. Learn more here: https://www.petsforward.org/

Copper was brought to VRCCO after being exposed to antifreeze, a serious toxin that can quickly cause kidney failure in dogs. Because he arrived early, our team was able to perform hemodialysis — a life-saving treatment that removes toxins from the bloodstream before permanent damage occurs. Copper tolerated dialysis well and is now recovering. This video highlights how timing, advanced technology, and a skilled emergency team can change the outcome. How Dialysis Saved This Dog's Life After Antifreeze Exposure

When Pumpkin was found by his family after being shot and left for dead, his chances of survival were slim. The cost of care to save his life was far beyond what his family could manage, but our team saw a spark of hope in him. With help from PetsForward, we were able to provide the critical care and surgery he needed to recover. Today, Pumpkin has fully adapted to life without sight and continues to thrive at home with his loving family. His story is a powerful reminder of the difference that compassion and community support can make. We’re proud to be part of Central Oregon Gives, a regional campaign supporting local nonprofits through the end of December. Donating through their website not only helps pets like Pumpkin but also earns you fun weekly incentives from local businesses.

Is anesthesia safe for dogs and cats? It’s one of the most common questions we hear from pet parents, and an important one. In this video, we walk through what happens before, during, and after anesthesia, including how pets are monitored throughout their procedure and the steps we take to keep them safe. We also introduce our veterinary anesthesiologist and explain their role in creating individualized anesthesia plans and overseeing patient care. If you’ve ever felt nervous about your pet going under anesthesia, this video is for you.

When Dixie began losing her vision, her family feared she’d never see their faces again. After being diagnosed with diabetes, she developed cataracts that left her nearly blind. With help from PetsForward, Dixie received cataract surgery and regained her sight—along with her happy, playful spirit. We’re proud to be part of Central Oregon Gives, a campaign supporting local nonprofits through the end of December. Donating through their website not only helps pets like Dixie but also earns you fun weekly incentives from local businesses. Help us reach our goal and make more stories like Dixie’s possible! https://centraloregongives.com/nonprofit/petsforward/