Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Comprehensive Veterinary Care in Atlanta, GA
North Springs Animal Clinic has been providing comprehensive veterinary care in Sandy Springs, Georgia, since 1973. Founded by Dr. Jay Empel and now led by his son, Dr. Andrew Empel, our family-owned practice combines decades of experience with a commitment to personalized attention for pets and their owners. Our team of skilled veterinarians and support staff offers a full range of services, including wellness care, surgery, dental care, diagnostics, dermatology, laser therapy, nutritional counseling, behavioral counseling, ultrasound, and emergency care.We are Fear Free and Cat-Friendly certified to ensure stress-free visits for pets, and we maintain state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to deliver timely, accurate care. With two additional locations in Brookhaven and North Springs, we serve the Atlanta area with medical expertise, compassionate service, and a dedication to lifelong learning and community trust.
Services
Wellness Care
Surgery
Dental Care
Diagnostics
Dermatology
Laser Therapy
Nutritional Counseling
Behavioral Counseling
Ultrasound
Emergency Care
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- We offer over 40 years of experience in veterinary medicine with a family-owned tradition of care.
- Our Fear Free and Cat-Friendly certified team ensures stress-free visits for pets.
- We provide 24/7 emergency care for urgent pet health needs.
- Our state-of-the-art diagnostic technology enables rapid, accurate treatment decisions.
- We offer house calls for pets requiring specialized care at home.
Associations and certifications
- Fear Free
- Cat-Friendly Certified
What people say
Excellent hands
Highly recommend
Amazing vet
Caring staff
Stress-free experience
Services
Wellness Care
Our wellness care focuses on preventive services like vaccinations, blood work, and parasite control to maintain pet health. We recommend biannual exams to detect early signs of disease, ensuring pets age gracefully. Our team educates owners on lifestyle adjustments to enhance longevity and quality of life.
Surgery
We offer soft-tissue and orthopedic surgeries, from routine spays/neuters to complex procedures like fracture repairs. Pre-surgical lab work ensures safety, and post-operative care includes pain management and recovery guidance. Our surgeons prioritize patient comfort and long-term health outcomes.
Dental Care
Dental services include cleanings, extractions, and periodontal disease management. We use digital radiographs and anesthesia monitoring to ensure safe, effective treatments. Regular dental care prevents systemic infections and extends pets' lifespans.
Diagnostics
Our in-house lab and imaging tools (X-rays, ultrasound) enable rapid diagnosis of illnesses and injuries. Services include blood tests, fecal exams, and advanced imaging to guide treatment plans. Timely diagnostics improve outcomes for critical cases.
Emergency Care
We provide 24/7 emergency services for acute injuries, poisoning, or sudden illness. Our team stabilizes critical patients with oxygen therapy, IV fluids, and pain management. Immediate access to diagnostics and surgical intervention ensures lifesaving care.
People
Dr. Vivian Wen
Medical Director
Dr. Wen joined in 2011, specializing in animal behavior and surgery. She earned her DVM from the University of Illinois and completed an internship at Blue Pearl Georgia. Certified in Fear Free and Cat-Friendly methods, she enjoys camping, hiking, and global cuisine.
Dr. Andrew Empel
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Empel graduated from Auburn University in 2000 and co-founded North Springs Animal Clinic and Brookhaven Animal Hospital. He focuses on dermatology, soft-tissue surgery, and dentistry. He enjoys boating, skiing, and family time with his son and dog.
Dr. Miriam Renfroe
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Renfroe earned her DVM from Auburn University in 2016. She specializes in ophthalmology and ultrasonography and is Fear Free certified. She loves outdoor activities with her Labrador, Dax, and hopes to own a horse.
Dr. Juliana E. Lee
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Lee graduated from Virginia Tech in 2014. She practices small animal medicine and surgery, with experience across the U.S. She mentors veterinary students and enjoys travel, cooking, and escape rooms with her family.
Dr. Antoinette Jones
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Jones earned her DVM from Ohio State University in 2021. She specializes in small animal and backyard poultry care and is Fear Free certified. She enjoys kayaking, paddleboarding, and exploring Atlanta's restaurants.
Questions
What services does Vernon Woods Animal Hospital offer?
We provide wellness care, surgery, dental care, diagnostics, dermatology, laser therapy, nutritional counseling, behavioral counseling, ultrasound, and 24/7 emergency care for dogs, cats, and small mammals.
Are your veterinarians certified in pet-friendly care?
Yes, our team includes Fear Free and Cat-Friendly certified veterinarians to reduce anxiety during visits through gentle techniques and tailored environments.
Do you offer after-hours emergency care?
Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency services for urgent pet health issues, including injuries, poisoning, and acute illnesses.
Can I access my pet's medical records online?
Yes, our Pet Portal allows secure access to your pet's records, appointment history, and vaccination details for convenient management.
What areas do you serve?
We serve Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, and North Springs, Georgia, with three convenient locations for pet care.
Do you offer house calls for pets?
Yes, we provide house calls for pets requiring specialized care or those with mobility challenges, ensuring comfort and accessibility.
