Earthquake Strikes Great Falls Amid Veterinary Surgery
On Thursday, Great Falls experienced a 4.2 magnitude earthquake at 12:41 p.m. The quake’s epicenter was located approximately 4.9 miles northeast of the city. While residents paused to assess the situation, a veterinary clinic faced a unique challenge.
Earthquake Strikes During Veterinary Surgery
Inside Associated Veterinary Services, veterinarian Dr. Emma Law and her team were performing a tail amputation on a dog under anesthesia when the earthquake hit. The sudden tremors created immediate concern for the safety of the animal on the operating table.
Veterinary Team’s Quick Response
- Instinctual Actions: Vet tech Fiona O’Day instinctively shielded the dog by covering it with her body.
- Maintaining Sterility: The team focused on keeping the surgical site stable despite the shaking.
Dr. Law described the initial sensation as a rumble that escalated into significant shaking. The team initially suspected a heavy object had struck the clinic. “We have plans for fires and gas leaks,” Law noted, “but earthquakes aren’t something we really prepare for here.”
Aftermath of the Earthquake
Once the tremors ceased, the clinic staff checked for any damage. Fortunately, the concrete and cinder block structure remained intact, and nothing fell from shelves. The patient recovered well from surgery, thanks to the diligence of the veterinary staff.
Lessons Learned
The incident sparked discussions among the clinic team about emergency preparedness and the importance of having a set protocol for future earthquakes. “It definitely made us more aware,” O’Day reflected. “Hopefully, we’ll have a better plan in place in the future.”
Although earthquakes are infrequent in north-central Montana, this experience emphasized the importance of readiness in critical situations. For the veterinary team, there is no pause in their responsibilities, especially when a life is already on the operating table.
