Do our pets make us better people?
My friend, Priscilla, and I think so! We chat about this idea and more as we discuss Dr. Amy Attas’ memoir "Pets and the City: True Tales of a Manhattan House Call Veterinarian."
When Dr. Amy Attas found herself unexpectedly fired from a prestigious Manhattan veterinary clinic, she did something revolutionary—she launched the city's first full-time veterinary house call practice. What began as a professional setback blossomed into a groundbreaking career that has touched the lives of over 14,000 pets and their devoted owners.
Through her memoir, Dr. Amy opens the door to the intimate world of in-home veterinary care, where examining rooms are luxury penthouses, celebrity apartments, and modest walk-ups alike. With compassion and wit, she recounts unforgettable encounters with clients ranging from Joan Rivers (who became both patient and cherished friend) to Billy Joel and even Cher, whose impromptu plane examination led to an unexpected naked consultation. Beyond the glitz, Dr. Amy masterfully captures the profound emotional landscape of caring for beloved animals in their own territories.
The heart of this memoir lies in the sacred human-animal bond that transcends social status and circumstance. Dr. Amy doesn't shy away from difficult topics, like the ethical dilemmas when owners refuse life-saving treatments, the heartbreaking decisions around end-of-life care, and the remarkable resilience of animals with disabilities. Her stories remind us that our pets see us at our most authentic selves, bearing witness to our vulnerabilities while offering unconditional love in return. Through her own journey of pet loss and renewal, she offers gentle wisdom about grief and the courage to love again.
Whether you're a devoted pet parent, considering adoption, or simply fascinated by the extraordinary connections between humans and animals, these true tales from Manhattan's pioneering house call veterinarian will transform how you understand the furry companions who make our worlds infinitely richer. Dr. Amy's remarkable journey proves that sometimes the most healing medicine comes with four paws, a wagging tail, and the ability to make any apartment feel like home.
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Other links:
volunteer.org
https://www.wcs.org/96-elephants
Heather’s Custom Pets
This episode is produced, recorded, and its content edited by me.
Technical editing by Brianna Picone
Theme song by Devon Kennedy
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