Walk through the doors of a modern, neighbor-first veterinary clinic and you can feel the difference: calm pets, clear guidance, and a team that knows exactly when reassurance is enough and when urgency matters. We sat with Dr. Kelly Gersch of Mission Veterinary Medical Center to unpack how general practice and urgent care come together for Northern Kentucky pet families who want high-quality medicine without the mystery.

We dig into the practical stuff first—what Mission treats on the spot (vaccines, sick visits, same-day ear infections, GI upsets), what belongs at a 24/7 ER (breathing trouble, major trauma), and how her team coordinates with trusted Cincinnati emergency and specialty hospitals. That handoff isn’t just a referral; it’s a direct line to the right experts, from neurology to surgery, so your pet lands exactly where they’ll get the best outcome. Along the way, Kelly shares a heartfelt story about managing a complex diabetic dog, showing how compassionate coaching can turn frustration into years of good life.

Preventive care takes center stage, but not as a one-size-fits-all checklist. Think lifestyle medicine: a hiking dog heading to tick-heavy trails needs a Lyme strategy; an “adventure cat” on a harness needs parasite prevention that indoor cats often skip. Senior pets get a thoughtful roadmap that blends diagnostics, nutrition, omega-3s, dental health, home modifications, and multimodal pain control. Kelly even explains how acupuncture, once a skeptic’s stretch, now helps her own dogs move easier and stay upbeat.

You’ll also meet the people who make the place hum: the upbeat front desk, calm and skilled assistants, a registered veterinary technician you want placing your pet’s IV, a practice manager who keeps everything on time, and Dr. Libby Metka, a surgeon and clinician Kelly trusts completely. To lower barriers, Mission offers a free first exam for new patients and $100 off dental cleanings during Pet Dental Health Month. You can find them at 8780 US 42, Suite A, Florence/Union, book 24/7 at www.missionvetmedicalcenter.com, or call 859-201-2432. Hours: Mon–Fri 8–6, Sat 9–6.

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