Animal Referral Hospital Essendon Fields breaks ground on a 1,450sqm specialist facility featuring MRI, CT, and dedicated recovery zones
Construction has officially commenced on an upgraded, state-of-the-art facility for the Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) Essendon Fields.
Located at 77 Hargrave Avenue, the purpose-built 1,450sqm site represents a major investment in specialist and emergency veterinary care for pet owners across Melbourne's north-west.
Having served the local community for more than a decade, the expanded hospital will significantly boost capacity and broaden the scope of critical care services available under one roof.
Expanded Emergency & Specialist Capabilities
Designed to handle the growing demand for urgent veterinary care, the new purpose-built hospital will feature:
- 11 Consultation Rooms & 4 Operating Theatres: Built to streamline emergency admissions and shorten wait times.
- Advanced Diagnostic Imaging: In-house access to CT, MRI, fluoroscopy, and digital X-ray technology for immediate, precise diagnoses.
- Specialised Procedure Rooms: Dedicated suites for oncology and endoscopy, backed by an expanded Critical Care Unit.
- Low-Stress Patient Care: Purpose-designed, separate wards for dogs, cats, and exotics to cater to their unique comfort needs.
- Undercover Recovery Area: A dedicated outdoor exercise zone to assist with patient rehabilitation and post-operative care.
Operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the hospital’s location alongside the Essendon Fields terminal offers direct freeway access, ensuring fast transit for emergency cases when every minute counts.
“Our pets are family. When they’re seriously ill or injured, pet owners need access to exceptional care close to home," says Dr Magdoline Awad, Chief Veterinary Officer at Greencross Pet Wellness Company.
"This new facility allows us to care for more patients, broaden the specialist services we can offer, and provide our clinical teams with a purpose-built hospital that supports the very best outcomes for every animal in our care."
 |
| Representatives from Essendon Fields, Greencross, ARH, and Elite Training celebrate the start of construction. |
About Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) Essendon Fields
ARH Essendon Fields is a leading 24/7 specialist and emergency veterinary hospital serving Melbourne's north-west. As part of the Animal Referral & Emergency (ARE) Network—one of Australia's largest specialist networks—the hospital collaborates closely with local primary vets to deliver advanced diagnostics, surgery, and critical care. The ARE Network is operated by Greencross Pet Wellness Company, Australia’s leading integrated pet care provider.
All images courtesy of Essendon Fields.
Hospital Location & Contact Details
Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) Essendon Fields
- Address: 77 Hargrave Avenue, Essendon Fields, VIC 3041
- Hours: Open 24/7 (Monday – Sunday)
- Phone: 03 9379 0700
- Email: essendon@arhvets.com
