Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Comprehensive Veterinary Care in Atlanta, GA
Vernon Woods Animal Hospital has been a trusted provider of veterinary care in Sandy Springs, Georgia, since 1973. Founded by Dr. Jay Empel and now led by his son, Dr. Andrew Empel, we are a family-run practice committed to personalized attention for pets and clients. Our services span wellness care, surgery, dental care, diagnostics, behavioral counseling, and emergency services. With Fear Free and Cat-Friendly certified veterinarians, we prioritize reducing pet anxiety through gentle techniques and tailored care plans.Our state-of-the-art facility includes advanced diagnostic tools, an in-house pharmacy, and specialized services like laser therapy and nutritional counseling. We also operate two additional locationsBrookhaven Animal Hospital and North Springs Animal Clinicto better serve the Atlanta area. Our team of experienced veterinarians and support staff is dedicated to compassionate, comprehensive care, ensuring pets live healthier, happier lives.
Services
Wellness Care
Surgery
Dental Care
Diagnostics
Emergency Care
Boarding
Grooming
Laser Therapy
Nutritional Counseling
Behavioral Counseling
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- We offer over 40 years of experience in veterinary care with a family-run approach.
- Our Fear Free-certified team specializes in reducing pet anxiety during visits.
- Advanced diagnostics and surgical capabilities available onsite for immediate care.
- 24/7 emergency services ensure critical care when pets need it most.
- Personalized nutritional and behavioral counseling tailored to each pet's needs.
Associations and certifications
- Fear Free Certified
- Cat-Friendly Certified
What people say
Excellent hands
Highly professional
Calming bedside manner
Stress-free experience
Quick recovery
Services
Wellness Care
Our wellness care focuses on preventive services like vaccinations, parasite control, and annual exams to ensure pets maintain optimal health. We tailor care plans to each pet's lifestyle and age, emphasizing early disease detection. Clients benefit from personalized education on nutrition, behavior, and at-home care to support long-term wellness.
Surgical Services
We provide soft-tissue and orthopedic surgeries, including spays/neuters, dental procedures, and complex repairs. Pre-surgical lab work ensures safety, while post-operative care includes pain management and recovery guidance. Our team prioritizes clear communication about risks, benefits, and aftercare to ensure pet owners feel confident in their pet's treatment.
Dental Care
Comprehensive dental services include cleanings, extractions, and periodontal disease management. Digital radiographs and anesthesia monitoring ensure thorough, safe care. We educate clients on home dental hygiene to prevent future issues and emphasize the link between oral health and overall wellness.
Diagnostic Imaging
Our in-house diagnostics include digital X-rays, ultrasound, and echocardiograms for rapid, accurate diagnoses. This technology allows us to assess internal organs, detect abnormalities, and plan treatments without referrals. Clients receive immediate results and clear explanations of next steps for their pet's care.
Emergency Care
We offer 24/7 emergency services for critical conditions like trauma, poisoning, or severe illness. Our team is equipped to stabilize pets and provide life-saving interventions. Clients appreciate the availability of urgent care and seamless transition to follow-up treatment if hospitalization is required.
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. Fear Free and Cat-Friendly certified, 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 and dentistry, sharing his home with an English Cream Retriever and his son.
Dr. Miriam Renfroe
Associate Veterinarian
A 2016 Auburn graduate, Dr. Renfroe specializes in ophthalmology and ultrasonography. Certified in Fear Free techniques, she moved to Georgia to be closer to family and enjoys spending time with her Labrador, Dax.
Dr. Juliana E. Lee
Associate Veterinarian
Dr. Lee, a Virginia Tech graduate, has practiced nationally in small animal medicine. She mentors veterinary students and interns, focusing on client education. She enjoys travel, cooking, and escape rooms with her family.
Dr. Antoinette Jones
Associate Veterinarian
A 2021 Ohio State graduate, Dr. Jones specializes in poultry and small animal care. Fear Free certified, she enjoys kayaking, hiking, and exploring Atlanta's restaurants and cultural exhibits.
Questions
What emergency services are available?
We offer 24/7 emergency care for critical conditions, including trauma, poisoning, and severe illness, with immediate stabilization and treatment.
Do you care for small mammals?
Yes, we treat ferrets, rabbits, gerbils, hamsters, and guinea pigs in addition to dogs and cats.
Are payment plans available?
We accept major credit cards and offer CareCredit financing for veterinary services.
What certifications does your team hold?
Our veterinarians are Fear Free and Cat-Friendly certified to reduce pet anxiety during visits.
Do you offer house calls?
Yes, we provide house call services for pets requiring in-home care or mobility assistance.
How can I access my pet's records?
Use our online Pet Portal to view medical records, schedule appointments, and refill prescriptions securely.
Reviews (6)
Morris
Jun 25, 2022
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Have used Vernon Woods for approx. 24 years. Have settled in with Vivian Wen, DVM. But have been to a few of her partners, when she is on vacation, & the care & results were always positive.
Lindsey Rottner
Jun 11, 2022
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Dr. Wen was absolutely awesome and the front office staff is so kind and sweet. They really do care about you and your pets wants/needs. I love this place and will be back : thank you all for making my experience a great one
Alison Nelson
Mar 25, 2022
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I absolutely love this animal hospital. The staff and the doctors genuinely care and they are so friendly and knowledgeable. Whenever I need to bring my pet they are always available to see her. I am so thankful I found them!
Natalie Black Barry
Feb 19, 2022
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We've been trusting Vernon Woods for about a year now with our first fur baby. We are always so happy with the care we receive! They are quick to answer calls and work to fit us in for appointments, even when last-minute. I love their staff and vet techs. We see Dr. Miriam Renfroe who is so sweet. She is happy to answer any and all questions we may have about our dog's symptoms and overall health. We hope to stay with Vernon Woods for years to come!
Jesse Oukheira
Jan 27, 2022
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I had such a great experience. They worked within my budget and addressed immediate and long term needs for my little husky mix. I didn't have to wait to get an appointment and I didn't have to sit in an office for an hour to meet the vet or technician like I've had to do at other vet offices. They're so clean, friendly, and have a great dog kennel also. My dog loved the staff and they were so patient with her.
Peter Novotny
Jan 20, 2022
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Came in for urgent care for my dog. regular vet not available. These folks were great. Treated me, and Phil well. Saw us in a reasonable amount of time. Personable. Thoroughly explained treatment and care. No complaints and Thank You! Definitely recommend.
