The Portrait of a Veterinary Hospital - LocalVet Tunari

"If I had worked for someone else, they would have never allowed me to gather so many animals," says Dr. Ana-Maria Bratu, a veterinarian at LocalVet Tunari clinic. In 2019, she opened LocalVet, which was intended to become a support center for stray animals in Tunari and the surrounding areas.

When asked by our Nectarly reporter about her choice to become a veterinarian, Ana-Maria responds with a radiant smile, "Ever since childhood, my dream was to be a veterinarian." She openly admits that the origin of this passion eludes her, but thinks her enduring empathy, particularly towards animals, has played a big part.

"It's as if I sense their pain; they communicate a wealth of emotion to me," she explains. This deep connection is the driving force behind her unwavering dedication to the clinic: a commitment to improving the lives of the animals under her care.

"When I'm aware that my actions have brought goodness and saved a life, it becomes the most exquisite reward."   - Ana-Maria Bratu

Dr. Ana-Maria Bratu at LocalVet Tunari, 2019. Source: Facebook

Ana-Maria can't precisely recollect the beginning of her journey in caring for animals, but she notes that in its early days, the clinic was considerably more modest. At present, more than 30 animals inhabit the three rooms of the clinic, featuring designated play zones for cats, cozy beds, and even a rocking chair. These spaces serve as havens where the animals, be they patients or street rescues, pass their time.

"I can't quite pinpoint how I began to take stray animals in, but it happened how it usually does – someone arrives with a box full of kittens they stumbled upon in the fields, uncertain about what to do. Before I knew it, I took them in," shares Ana-Maria. The news quickly spread that she was a compassionate caregiver for animals, prompting locals to persist in bringing them from the streets.

In some instances, the animals weren't discovered on the streets but were relinquished by owners who could no longer care for them. Such was the case with the hamster below. Ana-Maria recounts, "A friend informed me that she couldn't attend to him anymore and brought him to us.” LocalVet has housed pigeons, hamsters, cats, dogs, and even lizards.

The hamster at LocalVet. Source: Nectarly

While she’d love to accommodate every animal, limitations in personnel and funds occasionally restrict her capacity. Thus, the remote adoption program, Nectarly, would serve as crucial support. Ana-Maria notes, "Maria, our recent addition to the team, has proven to be an invaluable asset." Despite being in her first year of college, Maria dedicates 3-4 days a week to LocalVet. "I willingly come, even on days when it gets hectic and tiring," she affirms.

Maria reflects on her experience: "I believe the most challenging aspect isn't the physical tasks but the emotional connection with the animals, understanding whether they are more open or shy.”

Maria, recently hired at LocalVet. Source: Facebook

The LocalVet team currently seeks support, not just in terms of finances but also in practical tasks. Ana-Maria emphasizes, "We welcome any form of assistance, particularly from those willing to lend a hand with cleaning activities." She expresses optimism that the remote adoption program Nectarly will generate sufficient funds to establish a facility where stray cats and dogs can be sheltered until they find a permanent home: an adoption center!

Take a virtual tour! (Christmas themed)

Want to adopt an animal?

If this article convinced you, contact LocalVet Tunari via their Facebook page (LocalVet Tunari).

However, if you're not ready to get a lifelong companion, you can choose to virtually adopt an animal from our website. Simply go to the shelters page and pick an animal to support monthly.

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