Appointments & Bookings
When should I take my pet to an emergency veterinary hospital?
Knowing when your pet needs emergency care can feel overwhelming. This guide is here to help you recognize urgent situations and act quickly when it matters most.
What is considered a veterinary emergency?
A veterinary emergency is any situation that could be life-threatening, causing severe pain, or worsening rapidly.
When in doubt, it’s always safer to seek emergency care. What are signs I should go to the emergency vet immediately?
Seek emergency care right away if your pet has any of the following:
Abdominal swelling, pain, or bloating
Any eye redness, discharge, or squinting
Any lacerations or bite wounds
Collapse, unresponsiveness, or sudden weakness
Concerns for heatstroke or heat exhaustion
Difficulty breathing, choking, or blue/pale gums
Eye injuries or sudden vision loss
Hit by a car, fall from a height, or other major trauma. Even if they appear normal
Ingestion of toxins, medications, or foreign objects
Inability to get comfortable, stop panting, or restlessness
Inability to urinate or straining to urinate
Seizures or repeated seizures
Severe or unexplained bleeding
Severe vomiting or diarrhea, especially with blood
Staggering or struggling to walk
What foods are toxic to dogs and cats that would require a trip to the Emergency Hospital?
Some common foods can be dangerous—and even life-threatening—for pets. If you believe your pet has eaten toxic food, contact or go to an emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
Foods Toxic to Both Dogs and Cats
Alcohol
Caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks)
Chocolate (especially dark or baking chocolate)
Grapes or raisins (even small amounts)
Onions, garlic, shallots, chives (raw, cooked, powdered, or in supplements)
Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods, and some peanut butters)
These can cause severe symptoms including vomiting, seizures, organ failure, or collapse.
Foods Especially Dangerous for Dogs
Cooked bones (can splinter and cause internal injury)
Corn cobs (risk of intestinal blockage)
Fatty or greasy foods (can trigger pancreatitis)
Ideally avoid raw bones
Macadamia nuts
Yeast dough (can expand in the stomach and produce alcohol)
Foods Especially Dangerous for Cats
Certain seasonings and sauces (especially those containing garlic or onion)
Dog food (nutritionally inappropriate long-term)
Milk and dairy products (can cause severe digestive upset)
Raw fish or raw eggs
What if my pet seems “off,” but not critical?
If your pet is uncomfortable but stable, such as:
Mild vomiting or diarrhea
Limping without severe pain
Minor wounds
Reduced appetite for less than 24 hours
Schedule a visit with your primary care veterinarian, letting them know it is a sickness visit so they can help prioritize care. If symptoms worsen or you’re unsure, contact an emergency veterinary hospital for guidance.
Should I wait to see if my pet improves?
For emergencies, waiting can be dangerous. Many conditions worsen quickly and early treatment can be lifesaving. If your pet is in pain, distress, or showing sudden changes, do not wait!
Can I call the emergency hospital before coming in?
Yes—calling ahead is encouraged when possible. The team can:
If your pet is unstable, come in immediately.
What should I bring to the emergency vet?
If time allows, bring:
Any medications your pet is taking
Medical records or recent test results
Information about what your pet may have eaten or been exposed to
Do not delay care if gathering items would slow you down.
What happens when I arrive at the emergency hospital?
Similar to human ERs, pets are triaged based on medical urgency. This means:
Your pet’s safety and comfort are the top priority.
Will emergency care cost more than a regular visit?
Emergency care often involves:
Specialized teams and equipment
Overnight or intensive monitoring
Advanced diagnostics and treatments
Costs can be higher due to the level of care provided. The team will discuss estimates and financial options with you whenever possible.
What if I can’t get to an emergency veterinary hospital right away?
If you’re traveling or unsure where to go:
Search for the nearest emergency veterinary hospital so you know where to go when ready
Keep your pet warm, calm, and safely restrained during transport
How can I prepare for emergencies ahead of time?
We recommend:
Knowing the location and phone number of your nearest emergency veterinary hospital
Keeping pet medical records accessible
Discussing emergency plans with your family
Unsure if it’s an emergency?
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it’s okay to seek emergency care.
We’re here to support you—and your pet—when it matters most.
Emergency services, availability, and wait times may vary by day and location.
