Animal Hospital To Open In Summit, Launched By Union County Couple

SUMMIT, NJ — Evin and Rick Lyons first met while interning at the Veterinary Emergency and Referral Group in Brooklyn one year after graduating from college. Now, seven years later, the couple is launching their own animal hospital right in Summit.

Lyons Veterinary Hospital is set to open across from Huntley Taverne on Morris Ave. where Joe's Pizza used to be, according to owner Evin Lyons.

Evin said the hospital, which will exclusively see dogs and cats, will likely open sometime between late November and early December of this year.

Evin and Rick moved to Springfield in 2018 right before they got married, and Evin said they fell in love with the surrounding area.

"Both of us have worked as relief vets all around New Jersey, including locally, and we felt that there was a need for additional veterinary care," Evin told Patch. "We are excited to be so close to home!"

Both Evin and Rick graduated from veterinary school in 2014 — Evin from Cornell University and Rick from the University of Pennsylvania.

After dating for a few years, the duo moved to New Jersey in 2017. Since then, they have both worked at practices in New York and New Jersey.

They also have two furry friends of their own — a 13-year-old dachshund named Pringles and a 12-year-old one-eyed and no-toothed cat named Lira.

Evin said Lyons Veterinary Hospital will offer well and sick visits for dogs and cats, as well as conduct labwork and X-rays with "state-of-the-art technology."

Surgical services such as a spays, neuters and mass removals will also be offered. In addition, Evin said she and her husband have a lot of experience in dentistry and will offer dental cleanings with full dental X-rays, as well as oral surgery for cats and dogs.

A veterinary behaviorist will also be available to see pets experiencing behavioral issues.

"We are looking to create a unique animal hospital where our clients and patients always feel welcome," Evin said. "We plan on having a space that is aesthetically beautiful and comfortable."

She said Lyons will also offer an app that will allow clients to access their pet's records, request medication refills and reach out to the medical team.

The hospital will practice "Fear-Free medicine" — a low-stress handling, making sure all patients are as stress-free as possible when they come to the hospital, Evin said.

Fun community events like kitten yoga and "yappy hours" will also occur monthly at the hospital. Evin said she hopes to partner with local businesses in the venture.

Lastly, Evin said the hospital will work with local rescues to host adoption events.

You can learn more about the business on their website, as well as follow them on Instagram @thelyonsvet and Facebook.

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