24/7 Emergency Vet Care: What to Expect When Your Pet Needs Immediate Attention

When a pet suddenly becomes ill or injured late at night, on a weekend, or during a holiday, access to 24/7 emergency veterinary care can make a critical difference. Knowing what to expect during an emergency visit can help reduce stress and allow you to focus on what matters most - your pet’s health and comfort.
 

What Qualifies as a Veterinary Emergency?

Some situations require immediate veterinary attention and should not wait for a regular appointment. Common emergencies include:

• Difficulty breathing or persistent coughing
• Seizures or collapse
• Severe vomiting or diarrhea, especially with blood
• Trauma from accidents, falls, or bites
• Sudden weakness, paralysis, or loss of consciousness
• Ingestion of toxic substances or foreign objects
• Uncontrolled bleeding or visible pain

If you are ever unsure whether a situation is urgent, it is safer to seek emergency care right away.
 

What Happens When You Arrive at an Emergency Vet Hospital?

Our emergency veterinary facility is designed to prioritize the most critical cases first. When you arrive, your pet will undergo a triage evaluation to assess the severity of their condition.

Pets with life-threatening issues are seen immediately, while stable patients may wait briefly as critical cases are treated. This approach ensures that every pet receives care based on medical urgency, not arrival time.
 

Diagnostic Testing and Immediate Treatment

Once your pet is stabilized, the veterinary team may recommend diagnostic testing such as bloodwork, imaging (X-rays or ultrasound), or other advanced diagnostics. These tests help identify the underlying issue quickly so treatment can begin without delay.

Treatment plans vary depending on the condition and may include:

• Oxygen therapy or IV fluids
• Pain management
• Emergency surgery
• Medication for infection, inflammation, or toxicity
• Continuous monitoring in an intensive care setting

Throughout the process, our veterinary team will communicate findings and recommendations so you can make informed decisions about your pet’s care.

What Pet Owners Should Bring and Expect

If possible, bring any relevant medical records, current medications, or information about recent symptoms. However, do not delay seeking care if you cannot gather these items - emergency teams are equipped to act quickly with limited information.

Emergency visits may take longer than routine appointments due to the complexity of cases and the need for close monitoring. Costs can also vary based on diagnostics, treatment intensity, and length of hospitalization. Transparency and communication are key parts of emergency care, and staff will discuss estimates and options with you whenever possible.
 

Get Expert Care When Your Pet Needs It Most

Facing a pet emergency is never easy, but knowing what to expect from 24/7 emergency veterinary care can help you stay calm and act quickly when it matters most. Prompt attention, advanced diagnostics, and compassionate treatment all work together to give pets the best chance at recovery.

If your pet is experiencing an emergency or you are concerned about sudden symptoms, don’t wait. Contact PASE right away to ensure your pet receives immediate, expert care. Call us at (267) 727-3738 to learn more about our emergency services or for further guidance.