Brett Montague, DVM, DAVCECC
Critical CareDVM
Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Internship
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Residency
University of Pennsylvania – Ryan Veterinary Hospital
Certification
Board Certified by the American College of Emergency and Critical Care
Certificate in Extracorporeal Therapies – IRIS Hemodialysis Academy
Professional Memberships
Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society
American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (ACVECC)
American Society of Veterinary Nephrology and Urology (ASVNU)
Veterinary Interventional Radiology and Interventional Endoscopy Society (VIRIES)
Dr. Brett Montague has a lifelong passion for animals and a deep-seated interest in their health and well-being. The dynamic nature of veterinary medicine allows him to continually expand his knowledge and stay at the forefront of his field. Dr. Montague is equally committed to sharing his expertise through mentoring colleagues and educating pet owners. Ultimately, he finds immense satisfaction in enhancing the lives of animals and supporting their owners, thereby making a positive impact on his community.
What inspired your interest in critical care?
My fascination with physiology and the underlying mechanisms of disease sparked my interest in emergency and critical care. The dynamic, fast-paced nature of this field, combined with the opportunity to provide life-saving interventions, perfectly aligns with my career aspirations. Witnessing the remarkable resilience of animals and the immense gratitude of their owners when a critical case is successfully managed is incredibly rewarding and continues to fuel my passion.
What are some of the biggest challenges in your area of expertise?
Managing the intense stress and urgency inherent to emergency and critical care is undoubtedly one of the greatest challenges. This requires a unique blend of technical proficiency, emotional resilience, and rapid decision-making. Additionally, supporting both veterinary teams and pet owners through emotionally charged situations while maintaining professional composure is essential.
Is there a particular case that has inspired you?
I’ve had the privilege of caring for countless inspiring patients. One that stands out is an English Bulldog who required mechanical ventilation following a complex surgery during my veterinary studies. Her case solidified my decision to pursue critical care as a specialty. As a resident, I was captivated by the complexity of dialysis and therapeutic plasma exchange cases. One particular patient with severe IMHA, on the brink of death, presented an extraordinary challenge. Through collaborative efforts and innovative treatments, including multiple plasma exchanges and specialized medications, she made a remarkable recovery. Seeing her thrive today and watching videos of her running on the beach is a testament to the power of critical care.
What do you like to do outside of work?
To recharge, I enjoy exploring new places, staying active through running and hiking, immersing myself in books, and sharing relaxing moments with my fiancé and cat while watching Survivor.