As devoted pet owners, we understand that their well-being is of utmost importance. Sometimes, it’s hard to know the right thing to do and how quickly to act. Here, we will shed light on the signs and situations that indicate an urgent situation so you can make an informed decision.
When To Seek Urgent Care
Urgent care is for pets that need to be seen by a veterinarian for an emergency condition and you cannot get into your primary care doctor. It’s important to seek immediate care if your pet is experiencing any of the following issues:
- Allergic reactions
- Bite wounds (including snakebites)
- Bleeding
- Breathing difficulties
- Broken bones or fractures
- Coughing (persistent)/choking
- Deep cuts or lacerations that may require stitches
- Diarrhea or vomiting (multiple times in one day or for more than one day)
- Eye injury
- Frostbite
- Heat stroke or heat exhaustion
- Lethargy or collapse
- Loss of consciousness
- Not eating or drinking for more than 24 hours
- Poison or toxin ingestion (additionally, you can call the Animal Poison Control Hotline 24 hours a day, 365 days a week at 888-426-4435)
- Seizures
- Swollen or bloated abdomen
- Straining to urinate or defecate
- Trauma
How Your Primary Care Veterinarian Can Help
In urgent care situations concerning your pet, contacting your primary care veterinarian before you contact an urgent care or emergency clinic, can provide valuable guidance and support. Your veterinarian has a comprehensive understanding of your pet’s medical history and can offer tailored advice based on their unique needs. Whether it’s sudden symptoms, unexpected injuries, or concerning behaviors, they can help assess the situation and advise on the next steps.
If your family veterinarian’s office is closed or at capacity, and you’re concerned about your pet’s health, seek help or guidance immediately. A visit or call to a pet urgent care or emergency practice is best and will offer peace of mind.
About AVSG Internal Medicine and Urgent Care
Our urgent care veterinarians and clinical team have chosen to focus their careers on emergency medicine, so you can count on us to help your sick or injured pet. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you believe your pet needs help.
While no appointment is necessary for urgent care, we ask that you call us at 949-653-9300 before you come over so we can prepare for your visit and let you know what wait time to expect. We are open 7 days a week and our hours can be found on our website.
And, take comfort in knowing that because of our location inside the AVSG building and long-standing relationships with other practices, we have immediate access to veterinary specialists in surgery, cardiology, dentistry, dermatology, oncology, ophthalmology, and more. Our outstanding clinical care is matched by our exceptional and compassionate teams of technicians, assistants, and client service representatives – giving you the peace of mind that your beloved companion is in the very best hands.
We’re located next to the Metrolink station in Tustin, CA, at the intersection of Jamboree x Edinger. Look for the purple sign. Learn more at avsgimuc.com.