Edgewater Animal Hospital, Buena Vista’s only veterinary clinic, abruptly shut down its operations this past week.
The sudden closure of an animal hospital that has been a part of the community since 1990 left pet owners scrambling to find veterinary care, with many expressing concern and dismay on Facebook.
An announcement of the closure was posted on Facebook. A statement by Dr. Edward Zak, founder and owner of the clinic, said the closure was due to “unforeseen circumstances.” He thanked the clinic’s patrons for their “many years of support.” The post stated that “staff is working to get your records processed and sent to you in a timely manner.”
The Facebook post, which went up earlier in the week, said the clinic’s last day of seeing patients would be Saturday. “There will be staff in the office next week,” the post continued. “Please call [the clinic] to get your records and any prescriptions picked up.”
The News-Gazette was unable to reach Zak for further elaboration on the sudden closure. Messages left on the clinic’s voice mail and email were not returned by the newspaper’s deadline Tuesday afternoon.
There was an outpouring of support on Facebook for the clinic’s veterinarian, Dr. Eileen Whitten, after her daughter posted the news. “Certainly an unfortunate end to an era,” her daughter stated in her post. “My mom is the most loyal, compassionate, hardworking person I know and has been the backbone of this small community for years now. And of course kudos to her incredible staff for their dedication and support.”
Dozens of responses followed. Here are samplings of the comments: “I am very saddened and disappointed by this news. Edgewater Animal Hospital is the only veterinar[y] practice our cats have ever known. My family sends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Whitten and the staff for 15 years of superior pet (and pet parent) care.”
“She has saved so many animals and helped so many people. The community knows and supports her! We’re eternally grateful for her, always.”
“Your Mom is the most caring, awesome, loving, intelligent, hard-working, brilliant woman who has been Edgewater Animal Hospital’s most valuable longtime asset and major brick of its foundation.”
“She’s a rare gem and always like family to us. All of our fur babies are gone but I still get to see her with the grandpups. We have always loved the staff. Our hearts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this sudden change.”
“Dr. Whitten was amazing with my dogs, always explained what was happening and was so patient and kind.”
“She is the kindest and most compassionate veterinarian I’ve ever had. I love that she talks with me – not at me and takes time to explain everything. …and the staff she had supporting her are the best! I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my animals.”
“Your mom is the very best. I am so grateful for her skills and incredible compassion over all these many years.”
-Several Facebook commenters reported that there was a police presence at the clinic Friday evening. Buena Vista Police Chief David Clements said officers were requested to be there for the process of accounting for the clinic’s prescription medication, which, after all, are controlled substances. “We were just there to make sure there were no issues,” he said.
For those who are interested in Dr. Whitten’s future plans, her daughter reported on Facebook, as did others, that the popular veterinarian has accepted a position with the Blue Ridge Animal Clinic on Va. 39, just north of Lexington.
