Urgent and Emergency Care for Pets

What Counts as Urgent Care vs. an Emergency!

Not every problem looks the same. Use these pointers, and when in doubt, call us, and we’ll be there right away.

Urgent care (pet is stable; usually same-day help):

  • Minor cuts or superficial bite wounds with no heavy bleeding
  • Mild vomiting or diarrhea without collapse
  • Ear infections, itchy skin, mild limping, eye discharge
  • Broken or torn nails, small abscesses, mild allergic reactions

Emergency (come in now or call on the way):

  • Trauma (car accidents, big falls), deep wounds, or heavy bleeding
  • Trouble breathing, choking, pale gums, or collapse
  • Repeated seizures, severe pain, or inability to stand
  • Suspected poisoning, heatstroke, or bloat (retching without producing vomit)

If you’re unsure where your pet fits, call us. We will guide you and get a room ready.

Our Pet Urgent & Emergency Services

Same-day urgent consultations:

  • Quick exams for sudden problems so your pet isn’t waiting in pain.

Pain control and stabilization:

  • Safe medications and supportive care to help your pet feel better while we assess.

Wound care and suturing:

  • Cleaning, stitches, and bandaging when needed.

In-house testing and imaging:

  • Basic lab work and X-rays to reach answers sooner.

Monitoring for serious cases:

  • IV access, oxygen support, and temperature care when required.

Referrals beyond our hours:

  • If your pet needs overnight or intensive care, we guide you to a trusted emergency pet center or emergency vet clinic in Murrieta and share records to smooth the handoff.

What to Do During Pet Emergencies!

  • Stay calm and call us for directions. A quick call lets us triage and prepare the team in Murrieta.
  • Bring your pet in as soon as you can. Use a secure leash or a crate. If your pet may bite from pain, use a muzzle only if it is safe to do so.
  • Avoid home remedies. Do not give human medicines or online “fixes” unless a veterinarian tells you to.
  • Bring records if you have them. Prior notes, X-rays, current medications, and allergies help us act faster.
  • On arrival, we will examine and triage*. We explain what is urgent, outline options, and give you a simple plan you can follow.
  • Ask questions anytime. We keep our explanations short and clear so you can make quick, confident decisions.

Triage is like a quick check the vet does right when you arrive at the animal hospital. Imagine the vet has a big line of pets who need help. They need to figure out who needs help right now and who can wait a little bit. Triage makes sure the sickest pets get the fastest help!

Emergency Pet Hospital FAQs

If your pet collapses during the night, it’s crucial to remain calm and assess their condition. Check for signs of breathing, responsiveness, and gum color; pale or bluish gums may indicate shock. Avoid shaking or forcing them to stand. If your pet is unresponsive or not breathing, seek immediate veterinary attention. Even if they seem to recover, a collapse always warrants professional evaluation to rule out underlying health issues.
If your pet is choking, stay calm and assess the situation. If you can see the object and it’s easily reachable, attempt to remove it carefully. For dogs, perform abdominal thrusts by placing your hands just below the rib cage and applying quick, inward and upward pressure. For cats, use a similar technique by applying pressure just below the rib cage. If the object remains lodged, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
The cost of an emergency veterinary visit can vary based on the nature of the emergency and the required treatments. On average, an emergency exam may range from $100 to $150. Additional services, such as blood work, imaging, or hospitalization, can increase the total cost. It’s advisable to contact your local emergency veterinary clinic for a more accurate estimate based on your pet’s specific needs.
Difficulty breathing in pets is a serious concern and requires immediate veterinary attention. Stay calm and keep your pet as comfortable as possible. Avoid stressing them further, as anxiety can exacerbate breathing issues. Transport your pet to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic without delay. If possible, call ahead to inform them of your arrival so they can prepare for your pet’s care.

Urgent Vet Needed Right Now?

Walk in during open hours, and call on the way so we can be ready at the door. We’re here for Murrieta pets in their toughest moments. If you have been looking for an emergency veterinarian near you or an urgent care vet in Murrieta, CA, come to us, and we’ll stabilize your pet and guide next steps.