Von Trapp Animal Lodge celebrated the groundbreaking of their brand new certified rehab veterinarian facility Wednesday, August 16. Located at 6500 Waters Avenue, this state of the art rehabilitation practice will consist of 3700 square feet and specialize in hydrotherapy, acupuncture, laser therapy, and boarding and daycare for dogs and cats.

Owner Betsy von Trapp was inspired to create a safe, nurturing environment for pets that would provide for their specific rehabilitation needs. "I wanted to create a retreat where I could offer services that aim to promote the physical and emotional well-being of our companion animals,” says von Trapp. “The von Trapp Animal Lodge will offer rehabilitation and fitness programs for pets who need alternative sources of pain control, weight management or for those suffer from orthopedic or neuromuscular disorders.  We will also provide fun, nurturing daycare and lodging options that encourage socialization and exercise.  I am so excited to be able to provide all of these services under one roof and under the direct supervision of a certified veterinarian."

The rehab facility was designed by Heitmann Associates Architects and will be built by West Construction Company. The facility will consist of multiple exam and rehab rooms, an underwater treadmill for hydro-therapy, a cat condo room and atrium, and 21 dog runs; three specifically  allocated for older and non-sociable pets. The 2000 square feet surrounding the indoor office will also include a zero entry outdoor pool.

“The von Trapp Animal Lodge will be one of Georgia’s finest animal rehabilitation facilities,” said West Construction Company President Matt West. “More importantly, it’s helping build an entrepreneurial dream for a great client to serve our community and their pets. We’re very happy for Betsy and look forward to a safe and successful project.”

Von Trapp, a Savannah native, received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. Following an internship, she worked with a private practice in Boston, Ma. She most recently worked with locally renowned practice Case Veterinary Hospital for 2.5 years where she became interested in acupuncture and complementary medicine. She received a Certificate in Acupuncture from Medical Acupuncture for Veterinarians in Fort Collins, Co. and received her Certification for Rehab from the University of Tennessee.

Von Trapp Animal Lodge plans to work closely with the Humane Society for Greater Savannah by establishing a "dog of the week" program.  They will provide daycare for a different adoptable dog each week thereby giving them time to play in a stimulating environment. Their hope is that this will improve the dog's quality of life and also encourage more adoptions for the Humane Society.