By Ninuri Asalya
On 30th November, PetVet marks 29 years of service excellence in providing compassionate, high-quality veterinary care. Established in 1996 by Dr Nalinika Obeyesekere, Dr Janaki Collure, and Dr Vipuli Kulasekera, PetVet has grown from a small clinic into Sri Lanka’s leading premier veterinary hospital. Over nearly three decades, it has become a beacon of compassion, excellence, and innovation in the local veterinary sector.
A Vision Beyond Ordinary Care
PetVet was founded with a clear mission to provide pets with exceptional medical care while ensuring pet parents fully understand their pet’s health needs. It is the first animal hospital in Sri Lanka to operate a multi-doctor practice 24/7, all year round. “We recognized that pets don’t just get sick from 9 to 5,” explains Dr Nalinika, Director & Co-Founder. “With several veterinarians, we are able to provide 24-hour emergency care and ensure pets receive timely and precise treatment.”
Beyond clinical care, PetVet was envisioned as a knowledge hub, where both young veterinarians and pet parents could learn to better care for our beloved pets. “We wanted to create a place where we could implement new and updated knowledge and ideas efficiently, to improve the quality of pet care for Sri Lanka”, says Dr Nalinika. The founders strongly believed that well-informed pet owners and trained veterinary professionals could work together to ensure pets live longer, healthier, and happier lives.
The Journey of PetVet
PetVet’s journey began with a modest team of three veterinarians and one animal carer. Driven by client demand and a commitment to quality care, the clinic gradually expanded into a full hospital employing 25 veterinarians and over 60 support staff.
Over the years, PetVet has introduced numerous advancements that have set benchmarks in Sri Lanka’s veterinary sector. The clinic transitioned from using injectable anesthesia to safer, easily reversible gas anesthesia, making surgeries much safer for pets. They pioneered blood transfusions, pet dentistry, and complex surgical procedures that were previously unavailable locally. They also introduced the “Comfort Room” after realizing how profoundly critically ill pets benefit from being close to their families. Rooted in empathy and compassion, this dedicated space allows families to stay with their hospitalized pets, including overnight, and is furnished with cozy bedding and essential amenities for added comfort.
In 2019, PetVet became the first Cat Friendly Clinic in Asia to be accredited by the International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM), receiving a Silver-level certification. This milestone reflects the hospital’s dedication to feline care and its commitment to international standards. PetVet is a scruff-free clinic and practices gentle handling, in accordance with the latest practice guidelines. Many staff members have also received Fear Free™ certification, demonstrating their expertise in reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in pets during clinic visits.
PetVet has led the way in quality pet care and services, clearing a path for many other people and companies to follow, to ensure Sri Lanka‘s pet care sector continuously improves and grows. They have brought the need for and importance of continuous learning for both veterinarians and pet parents at the forefront of their mission. “Knowledge is our strength,” says Dr Nalinika. “With good accurate evidence-based knowledge, we can together with you, ensure your pets’ health and happiness.”
Surgical Excellence at PetVet
The hospital’s surgical department, led by Dr Dayani Siriwardana, is among the most advanced in Sri Lanka. Dr Dayani, who also serves as Director, Board Member, and Head of Hospital, oversees a surgical team capable of performing a wide spectrum of procedures from routine soft tissue surgeries to highly complex orthopedic surgeries. Some surgeries are so advanced that, in Sri Lanka, they are only available at PetVet. Their state-of-the-art surgery theatres, sterilization protocols, and levels of care and aftercare are some of the highest available in Sri Lanka at this time.
Comprehensive & Compassionate Care
PetVet offers a full range of services ranging from the core functions of quality, compassionate medical and surgical care, to in-house laboratory, imaging diagnostics, in-house pharmacy, pet spa (grooming), pet shop, physiotherapy, hospitalization, and luxury pet boarding. The hospital also places importance on early development of cats and dogs. Their Puppy to Buddy training program helps puppies socialize and train to develop into well-adjusted family members, strengthening the human-animal bond from the earliest stages of life. This holistic approach ensures pets not only live longer but also enjoy a higher quality of life.
A Future-Focused Vision
As PetVet enters its 29th year, the focus remains on innovation and compassionate care. “Our dream is to create a space where pets enjoy coming for care, whether they are sick or healthy,” says Dr Nalinika. “We want to celebrate and strengthen the invaluable bond between humans and animals, providing both comfort and joy to pets and their families.”
PetVet is solidifying their position as a trailblazer in veterinary services in Sri Lanka and continues to set benchmarks in veterinary medicine, combining expertise with compassion and empathy. Their vision is to remain a trusted partner for pet parents, providing advice, treatment, and education that supports a lifetime of health for every pet.
Located in Colombo 05, PetVet is committed to providing pets and their families with the highest standard of veterinary care. Guided by its motto “Connect, Care, Cure”, the hospital is dedicated to building strong relationships with pet parents and delivering compassionate and expert medical attention. Appointments can be made by contacting 0112 599 799, and for emergencies, pet parents can call 077 77 388 38 for around-the-clock emergency assistance.
