Same Day Appointments Available
When Your Pet Needs Urgent Care
As pet owners, we never want to imagine our furry friends in a state of emergency. However, accidents and illnesses can happen at any time, so it’s important to know what constitutes a pet emergency and what steps to take in case of an emergency.
Pet Emergencies During Business Hours
Pet emergencies are managed on a case-by-case basis during our business hours. To confirm availability for your pet, please contact us at 831-484-9744. If we are not able to see your pet, we will refer you to an emergency pet hospital. For after-hours emergency care, please refer to the section below.
After-Hours Emergency Care
Blue Pearl
451 Canyon Del Rey Blvd.
Del Rey Oaks, CA 93940
831-899-4838
Pacific and Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists
2585 Soquel Dr.
Santa Cruz, CA 95065
831-475-5400
What is Considered a Pet Emergency
A pet emergency is any situation that requires immediate medical attention for your pet. This can include accidents, injuries, or sudden illnesses. It’s important to note that not all pet emergencies are life-threatening, but they do require prompt attention to prevent further complications.
Signs of a Pet Emergency
It’s important to be able to recognize the signs of a pet emergency. Some common signs include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Unconsciousness
- Severe bleeding
- Ingestion of toxic substances
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea
- Inability to urinate or defecate
- Seizures
- Difficulty standing or walking
- Extreme lethargy
- Injuries from accidents or falls
- Difficulty giving birth
If you notice any of these signs in your pet, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention.
What To Do in Case of a Pet Emergency
- Contact Your Veterinarian – If your pet is experiencing an emergency during our normal business hours, contact us immediately. We will be able to advise you on the next steps to take and may be able to fit your pet in for an emergency appointment. It’s important to have our phone number saved in your phone or written down in an easily accessible location.
- Contact a 24-Hour Emergency Veterinary Clinic – If we are closed or unable to see your pet, it’s important to have the contact information for a 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic. These clinics are equipped to handle pet emergencies at any time of day and can provide immediate medical attention for your pet.
- Transport Your Pet Safely – If your pet can walk or be carried, transport them as quickly and safely as possible. If your pet is unable to move, use a blanket or towel to carefully lift and transport them. It’s important to avoid any sudden movements or jostling that could worsen their condition.
- Follow the Veterinarian’s Instructions – Once you arrive, follow the veterinarian’s instructions carefully. They may need to perform tests or procedures to determine the best course of treatment for your pet. It’s important to stay calm and trust in their expertise.
Poison Control
If you have a concern regarding accidental ingestion of food, medication, plants or any other toxin, please call the ASPCA Poison Control Hotline at 888-426-4435 or visit: www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control.The ASPCA is your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency and are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
You may also contact the Pet Poison Helpline* at 855-764-7661.
* A consultation fee may apply.
Using CareCredit® for Emergency Pet Care
Facing unexpected pet care expenses during emergencies can be overwhelming. That’s where CareCredit® steps in to provide a solution. At Toro Park Animal Hospital, we are pleased to accept CareCredit®, a healthcare credit card specifically tailored to help manage emergency pet care costs. With CareCredit®, you gain access to special financing options and manageable monthly payments, easing the burden of unexpected veterinary expenses. Learn more about how CareCredit® can assist you and your beloved pet by visiting our CareCredit® page.