What is pet urgent care, and how is it different from a regular vet visit?

Pet urgent care is for emergencies or serious health issues that need immediate attention but may not require a full emergency hospital. Unlike routine vet visits for checkups or vaccinations,
urgent care addresses sudden or severe conditions that can’t wait for a regular appointment.


When should I take my pet to urgent care?

You should bring your pet to urgent care if they show signs of a serious health issue that needs
prompt attention. Common situations include:

  • Trauma or Injury: Hit by a car, falls, cuts, or limping.
  • Breathing Problems: Labored breathing, choking, or persistent coughing.
  • Severe Vomiting or Diarrhea: Especially if it lasts over 24 hours, contains blood, or your pet seems weak.
  • Seizures: Any seizure, especially if it’s the first or lasts longer than a minute.
  • Poisoning or Toxin Exposure: If your pet eats something toxic (e.g., chocolate, grapes, antifreeze, human medications, or plants like lilies).
  • Difficulty Urinating or Defecating: Straining without producing urine/stool or signs of pain.
  • Sudden Lethargy or Weakness: Extreme tiredness, collapse, or inability to stand.
  • Uncontrolled Bleeding: From wounds, nose, or gums.
  • Eye Issues: Squinting, discharge, redness, cloudiness, or sudden vision loss.
  • Severe Pain: Whining, trembling, or reluctance to move.
  • High Fever or Hypothermia: Abnormal body temperature ( the normal temperature for dogs and cats is ~100–102.5°F).
  • Allergic Reactions: Swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing after a sting or exposure.
  • Suspected Fractures: Limping, swelling, or inability to bear weight.
  • Bloat (GDV): Swollen abdomen, retching without vomiting, or restlessness (common in large dogs).
  • Foreign Object Ingestion: Swallowing toys, bones, or objects that could cause blockages.

What are some examples of non-urgent issues?

Non-urgent issues that can usually wait for a regular vet include:

  • Mild itching or skin irritation without severe symptoms.
  • Routine vaccinations or checkups.
  • Minor changes in appetite or behavior that aren’t sudden or severe.
  • Chronic conditions already being managed (unless symptoms worsen dramatically).

What should I do if I suspect my pet needs urgent care?

  • Stay Calm: Your pet can sense your stress, so try to remain composed.
  • Call Ahead: We recommend to call first in order to describe symptoms and get advice. We can tell you if it’s urgent or how to stabilize your pet before transport.
  • Secure Your Pet: Use a carrier for cats or small pets, or a leash for dogs to prevent further injury.
  • Bring Information: Note symptoms, recent activities, any toxins/medications your pet may have encountered, and your pet’s medical history.
  • Avoid Home Remedies: Don’t give human medications or try to treat severe symptoms without professional guidance.

How can I prepare for a potential pet emergency?

  • Know Your Nearest Urgent Care/Emergency Vet: Save their contact info and address.
  • Pet First Aid Kit: Keep supplies like gauze, antiseptic, and a thermometer handy.
  • Pet Insurance: Consider a plan that covers emergencies to reduce financial stress.
  • Training: Learn basic pet first aid (e.g., how to handle choking or stabilize a wound).
  • Records: Keep your pet’s vaccination and medical history accessible.


What should I expect at a pet urgent care visit?

  • Triage: Staff will assess your pet’s condition to prioritize urgent cases.
  • Diagnostics: Tests like bloodwork, X-rays, or ultrasounds may be needed.
  • Treatment: This could include fluids, medications, wound care, or surgery, depending on the issue.
  • Costs: Urgent care can be expensive (hundreds to thousands of dollars), so ask for estimates and discuss payment options if needed.
  • Follow-Up: You may be referred back to your regular vet or given instructions for at-home care.


Can I prevent needing urgent care for my pet?

While not all emergencies can be prevented, you can reduce risks by:

  • Keeping toxic substances (foods, plants, chemicals) out of reach.
  • Regular vet checkups to catch health issues early.
  • Supervising pets during outdoor activities to avoid injuries.
  • Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine to prevent obesity-related issues.
  • Spaying/neutering to reduce certain health risks (e.g., uterine infections).

Where can I find more information?

  • Pet Poison Helplines: Services like ASPCA Animal Poison Control (1-888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (1-855-764-7661) offer 24/7 guidance (fees may apply).
  • Online Resources: Websites like ASPCA.org or PetMD.com have emergency care guides.