What Is An Emergency?
Recognizing a Pet Emergency
Emergencies with your pet can feel overwhelming. We understand how stressful these moments are for both you and your pet.
The team at Escondido Veterinary Emergency is here to provide compassionate, efficient care when it matters most.
- Think It’s an Emergency? Come in Right Away
If your pet is experiencing severe bleeding, trouble breathing, seizures, collapse, unresponsiveness, major trauma (such as being hit, crushed, or falling), or urgent symptoms like a distended abdomen, blood in the urine, possible toxin exposure, or fluid buildup, please head to the nearest emergency hospital immediately.
- How Triage Works
We use a medical triage system to assess each pet upon arrival and determine the level of urgency. Our team may ask a few quick questions about your pet’s condition so we can act as quickly as possible. Pets in critical condition are treated first, which may result in longer wait times for more stable cases. Please review our triage process here.
- Poisoning or Toxic Ingestion
If you suspect your pet has consumed something toxic, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away. Follow their recommendations and let us know if you’re on your way. Please note, sharing your case number helps us prepare.
- When You Arrive
Our medical team will perform an initial assessment to determine the most appropriate next steps for your pet’s care. Treatment timing will depend on the severity of your pet’s condition and the number of incoming emergencies.
- Calling Ahead Helps
If possible, please call before you arrive so we can be ready for your pet and provide the most efficient care possible.
Here When You Need Us
We’re here for you and your pet when you need us most.
If you have questions or are experiencing an emergency, don’t hesitate to reach out or come straight in.