While most of Columbia is tucked away in bed, the lights are bright and the pace is fast behind the sliding glass doors of Columbia Veterinary Emergency Trauma & Specialty (CVETS). Emergency medicine doesn’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither does the dedicated “skeleton crew” that keeps watch over the Midlands’ pets in the middle of the night.

In our latest episode of Soda City Unleashed, host Emily White sits down with Raven Angulo, an overnight veterinary assistant at CVETS and an Army veteran. Raven gives us an exclusive look at the grit, humor, and heart required to navigate high-stakes animal emergencies when the sun is down.

The Anatomy of the “Skeleton Crew”

Working the overnight shift requires a specific kind of person. Raven describes the unique environment of the late-night team, a group that must be incredibly self-sufficient and deeply bonded. When a critical case rolls in at 3:00 a.m., there is no room for hesitation.

Raven highlights how teamwork is the backbone of after-hours care. From managing a sudden influx of patients in the lobby to assisting the on-call surgeons, the overnight staff operates like a well-oiled machine. And how do they stay alert during those long, quiet stretches? Raven shares how a few lighthearted pranks and a lot of caffeine keep the morale high and the team focused.

From the Front Lines to the Treatment Room

As an Army veteran, Raven brings a unique perspective to her role at CVETS. She discusses how her military background prepared her for the high-pressure environment of an emergency room.

Raven also explains how her service helps her connect with stressed pet owners. Whether it’s a veteran bringing in a service dog or a frantic family in the middle of a crisis, Raven uses her experience to provide a calm, steady presence. She understands that while the medical tech is important, advocating for the patient and the client is the heart of the job.

The Gold Standard: “Putting Eyes on a Patient”

If there is one takeaway Raven wants pet owners to have, it’s the importance of triage. In the world of emergency medicine, “putting eyes on a patient” is the most critical first step.

Raven explains that while a phone call can provide some information, nothing replaces an in-person assessment by a trained professional. She walks us through what the team is looking for the moment a pet enters the building and why quick, decisive action during those first few minutes can make all the difference in a positive outcome.

A Passion for the Midnight Mission

Raven’s story is a testament to the dedication found throughout the halls of CVETS. It takes a special kind of advocate to choose the graveyard shift, but for Raven, the reward of seeing a patient stabilized and heading home is worth every late hour.

Is your pet experiencing a late-night emergency? Don’t wait. CVETS is open 24/7/365 to provide the highest level of specialty and trauma care. Visit CVETS.net to learn more about our team and services.