Facilities Management, or FM, is constantly working behind the scenes to maintain and enhance our campus, ensuring it meets the highest standards of safety, functionality, and aesthetics. One of FM’s recent successes was a collaborative effort with Building Maintenance Services and the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine to revitalize the barns at the William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, or VMTH. This critical project was completed in preparation for the hospital’s Fall 2025 Veterinary Accreditation program.

The VMTH is a cornerstone of UC Davis, serving as a 24/7 hub for clinical training, groundbreaking research, and exceptional animal care. Keeping its facilities in top condition is essential to ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for both animals and veterinary staff. Opened in 1970, the VMTH’s buildings have seen over five decades of wear and tear, making the recent upgrades a much-needed refresh.

Addressing Urgent Repairs with Precision

The repair project focused on the most pressing issues in high-traffic animal areas, including damaged floors, chipped paint, and rusted surfaces. Despite the challenges of working in a busy, round-the-clock hospital environment, the team successfully tackled these critical repairs while minimizing disruptions to animals and staff.

The FM paint team concentrated on refreshing major structures like the B, C, and D barns, the treatment and recovery areas, and the isolation barn. Because exterior work cannot be performed during the rainy season, the team braved extreme summer temperatures—sometimes exceeding 100°F. The heat caused paint to dry almost instantly, demanding a balance between speed and precision. Despite these challenges, the team completed the project in just two weeks—an impressive achievement given the original three-week timeline.

Specialized Solutions from Carpentry and Sheet Metal Shops

Meanwhile, the carpentry and sheet metal shops focused on rebuilding barn doors, repairing floors, and replacing ceiling tiles. In certain areas, the team installed Fiber Reinforced Plastic paneling to help prevent bacteria buildup and ensure a sterile environment in treatment rooms.

Adding a creative touch, the team incorporated animal-themed details into their work, such as crafting sheep-head designs into metal braces and carving horse silhouettes into barn doors. These thoughtful additions not only enhanced the functionality of the spaces but also added a touch of warmth and charm to the VMTH environment.

Navigating Unique Challenges: Animals at the Heart of the Hospital

What set this project apart was the need to carefully work around the animals housed in the facility. Many were sick, injured, or part of research programs, making it impossible to relocate them during repairs. Additionally, some animals were particularly sensitive to noise and environmental changes, requiring an extra level of care and consideration.

To minimize disruption, FM teams coordinated closely with veterinary staff to plan their work schedules and maintain a quiet, unobtrusive environment. Every step of the project was meticulously planned to ensure the animals’ well-being and avoid interfering with the hospital’s operations.

A Team Effort for a Better Future

This collaborative project exemplifies the dedication and ingenuity of Facilities Management and its campus partners. By completing these vital repairs and upgrades ahead of schedule, VMTH is now more prepared to meet the rigorous standards of the accreditation process.

The work also highlights FM’s commitment to preserving and enhancing UC Davis’ world-class facilities, ensuring they continue to support cutting-edge research, education, and animal care for years to come.