Previously called Animal Urgent Care of South Orange County, the hospital continues to offer urgent and emergency care for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, pocket pets and exotics
MISSION VIEJO, Calif. (June 4, 2026) – A South Orange County veterinary hospital known for treating pets when care can’t wait has a new name that better reflects what its team has long provided.
Animal Urgent Care of South Orange County, a Thrive Pet Healthcare partner hospital, is now
Animal Emergency of South Orange County. Although the hospital’s former name included “urgent care,” its team has treated emergency patients since 1995.
The hospital remains open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including weekends and major holidays. Pets with urgent care needs will continue to be treated, and the hospital will continue providing emergency care for dogs, cats, pocket pets, birds, reptiles and other exotic pets.
“This name change gives pet owners a clearer understanding of the medical care our team provides every day,” said Dr. Molly Backus, medical director of Animal Emergency of South Orange County. “We treat pets with sudden illness, injuries, urgent symptoms and emergency conditions that need immediate attention. Our team is here around the clock with diagnostic tools, emergency surgery capabilities and the experience needed to care for a wide range of species.”
The hospital is located at 28085 Hillcrest Road in Mission Viejo and serves pet owners in Mission Viejo and surrounding communities, including Aliso Niguel, Ladera Ranch, San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Hills. Pet owners and referring veterinarians can reach the hospital at (949) 364-6228.
The hospital offers in-house diagnostic testing, bloodwork, cytology, digital X-ray, ultrasound, in-house point-of-care testing, on-call specialty ultrasound, emergency surgery and postoperative care, endoscopy and end-of-life care. The team also provides specialized services, including fecal microbiota transplantation and autologous cancer vaccines.
Animal Emergency of South Orange County also partners with animal services and local rehabilitators to help injured wildlife.
“When a pet has an emergency, families need to know where to go and who can help,” said Amanda Bayles, practice manager of Animal Emergency of South Orange County. “Our new name makes that easier for the community. We’re proud to continue serving Mission Viejo and nearby South Orange County communities with compassionate care, day or night.”
Pet owners can search for their nearest Thrive Pet Healthcare location, including primary, specialty, and emergency veterinary care services at
www.ThrivePetCare.com.
