At Animal Emergency Australia (AEA), our mission is simple but powerful: the constant pursuit of better patient outcomes. That pursuit extends beyond the walls of our hospitals—and into the community, through meaningful partnerships that grow our teams and create lasting change for animals in need.
One of the most rewarding examples of this is our collaboration with RSPCA Queensland on monthly Surgery Days at the Wacol Animal Shelter—a program where clinical learning meets life-changing impact.
Where Skill Meets Purpose
Veterinarians and nurses from our Animal Emergency Service hospitals in Underwood and Jindalee regularly take part in these Surgery Days, working alongside the RSPCA’s experienced veterinary team to perform essential procedures—primarily desexing surgeries—to prepare animals for adoption.
It’s a hands-on opportunity to sharpen surgical and anaesthetic skills in a supportive, real-world setting. But more than that, it’s a chance for our teams to channel their deep care for animals into action—helping vulnerable pets recover, heal, and take their next steps toward a new life.
It’s incredibly meaningful for our team to contribute to animal welfare in such a hands-on way while also strengthening their surgical confidence.
Professional Development That Makes a Difference
At AEA, we believe that confident clinicians deliver better care. These sessions support that belief by offering structured, purpose-driven learning outside of the emergency setting—fostering professional growth through practice, teamwork, and mentorship.
Every procedure contributes to more than just technical capability. It supports an animal’s journey to a forever home. In many cases, pets that undergo surgery are adoption-ready within days—demonstrating the powerful link between skill development and improved patient outcomes.
Giving Back, Moving Forward
With shelters under increasing pressure from rising pet surrenders and limited resources, programs like Surgery Days make a tangible difference. They help animals move through the system faster, free up capacity for others in need, and ensure that every pet receives timely, compassionate care.
For our teams, it’s a reminder that their expertise is not only critical—it’s transformative.
Grounded in Compassion, Driven by Purpose
The veterinary and nursing professionals at AEA are united by more than training—they’re driven by a genuine love of animals and a deep desire to help. Surgery Days give them a chance to do both: to grow as clinicians, and to make a real difference for animals who need it most.
At AEA, we’re proud to empower veterinary professionals through experience that’s grounded in clinical excellence and driven by compassion—giving animals a second chance and our teams a chance to grow.
