Is This an Emergency?

Typically, if you’re asking yourself this question, the answer is “yes”. We understand that it can be terrifying to worry about your pet. Just like a child, a pet can’t tell you what’s wrong – you’re not being silly to be concerned, and we understand what it’s like to worry. Don’t ever be embarrassed to call us – that’s what we’re here for!

Top Conditions We See

Here are the top conditions that are absolute emergencies in pets:

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  • Your pet is having trouble breathing or has something stuck in the mouth or throat.
  • Your pet isn’t breathing or you can’t feel a heartbeat.
  • Your pet is unconscious and won’t wake up.
  • Your pet has been vomiting or has had diarrhea for more than 24 hours, or is vomiting blood.
  • You suspect any broken bones.
  • Your pet has had or is having a seizure.
  • Your pet is bleeding from the eyes, nose, or mouth, or there is blood in her urine or feces.
  • Your pet shows signs of pain, such as unusual whining, shaking, and refusing to socialize.
  • You think your pet might have eaten something toxic, such as antifreeze, rat poison, any kind of medication that wasn’t prescribed for the pet, or household cleansers.
  • Your pet, particularly your male cat, is straining to urinate, or is unable to.
  • Your pet collapses or suddenly can’t stand.
  • Your pet begins bumping into things or suddenly becomes disoriented.
  • Your pet’s abdomen is swollen and hard to the touch.
  • Your pet is gagging, retching, and/or trying to vomit but doesn’t bring anything up - this is much more serious when the abdomen is also swollen.
  • Your pregnant dog or cat has gone more than three to four hours between delivering puppies or kittens.

If you are able to call and let us know you’re coming in, great. It will allow us to better prepare for you. If you can’t call, that’s OK too – we’re used to handling critical emergencies and we'll be ready for you.