A new emergency veterinary provider is set to make its debut in Montgomery County. VEG ER for Pets, also known as Veterinary Emergency Group, has signed on to take over a portion of the former Party City space in Gaithersburg’s Kentlands neighborhood, which closed in early 2025.
The large retail footprint is being subdivided into three separate spaces, with VEG ER for Pets claiming the largest section, extending to the end of the strip on the opposite side of Chick-fil-A. The redevelopment is already bringing in multiple new tenants. Wonder, a “modern” food hall concept, is set to occupy one of the newly created spaces, while a third space, located between Coal Fire and Wonder, remains available for lease.
Construction is ongoing across all three units, and there is currently no announced timeline for opening. Based on the current progress, the new concepts do not appear to be opening in the immediate future.
The location will mark the first Montgomery County outpost for VEG ER for Pets, a rapidly growing network of emergency-only veterinary hospitals known for its unconventional approach to care. The company emphasizes keeping pet owners involved throughout the entire treatment process. Unlike traditional veterinary clinics, VEG operates with an open floor plan, allowing owners to remain with their pets during exams, procedures, and even surgery.
VEG facilities are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with no appointment required. Pet owners can walk in at any time or call ahead to speak directly with a veterinarian. The hospitals treat a wide range of animals, including dogs, cats, and exotic pets such as birds, reptiles, rabbits, and ferrets.
Another key component of their model is immediate triage, with medical staff often beginning evaluation and care as soon as a pet arrives, sometimes even before intake paperwork is completed.
