What is considered an “emergency situation”?
Any hit by car, even if there is no visual damage, the dog could have internal injuries and should be checked out.
A dog fight or a “shaken” (as in a dog fight) dog
Wounds anywhere
Poisoning: Be very careful about slug bait, antifreeze, mouse poison, poisonous plants, chocolate, grapes and raisins, antifreeze, lilly (flower) poisoning insecticides.
Eye wounds
Severe seizures
High temperature. If your dog is not feeling well, if it is acting differently, take a temperature rectally with a human thermometer. Leave in for two minutes. Normal temperature range is: 101.5 – 102
Gastric torsion (twisted stomach): A condition where, particularly in large, deep bodied dogs, the stomach can twist or be displaced, causing a very painful condition that is a definite emergency as dogs will die from this. At first the dog can show signs of just “being off” or act like he has a stomach ache which increases in severity. Veterinary attention is needed immediately as this will rapidly advance into shock and death.
Acute swelling, is something that wasn’t there 15 minutes ago and now is really big.
Difficult labor as a female is trying to deliver babies. More than 1 hour in heavy (pushing) labor with no puppies can be an emergency.
Difficulty breathing, any breathing that is abnormal
Behavior changes
Severe vomiting and diarrhea, with or without blood.
Non Emergency Questions:
Can I drop my dog off early? Yes, special arrangements can be made for your pet to be dropped off early or picked up late
Can I make financial arrangements? See Financial Arrangements.
Is there insurance that I can buy for my dog? YES. There are several insurance options out there that are listed on our Resources page. If you are considering Pet Insurance, BEFORE you bring your dog into the veterinary clinic (and a diagnosis is made) they need to be signed up on the policy. Our veterinary clinic makes no proceeds off of any of the insurance programs, but we do encourage pet insurance coverage as it helps make many veterinary expenses affordable.
You are always welcomed and encouraged to come in and meet our staff, let us introduce ourselves to our dog if you bring them and also pick up some pet insurance brochures. Insurance policies differ in their coverage, so compare diligently.