Long Island Emergency Vet with 24/7 Emergency Care

What to Do in a Pet Emergency

Make the process easier for both you and your pet by knowing what to expect in an emergency situation at our Long Island animal hospitals. 

Animal Emergency FAQs

Animals requiring immediate attention may have life-threatening situations or conditions that need treatment. 

• What is considered an emergency?

  The following situations are considered emergencies, and require immediate care. If your pet has had an accident or is experiencing any of these symptoms get them to our office straight away. 

  • Unconscious or unresponsive 
  • Unable to urinate
  • Severe bleeding or bleeding that doesn't stop 
  • Bleeding from the mouth, nose or rectum, blood in urine
  • Choking or continuous gagging/coughing, difficulty breathing 
  • Staggering or seizures
  • Inability to pass feces or urinate, or pain associated with passing feces or urinating 
  • Eye injuries 
  • Fractures to bones, inability to move leg(s) or severe lameness 
  • Foaming at the mouth 
  • Showing blue, pale or purple gums 
  • You know or suspect your pet has ingested something poisonous (such as rodent poison, chocolate, xylitol or antifreeze)
  • Heat stress or heat stroke
  • Severe vomiting or diarrhea; more than two episodes in 24 hours 
  • Refusal to drink for 24 hours or more
• What emergency services do you offer?

  Our hospital offers state-of-the-art emergency care for your four-legged friends. We are equipped to provide specialized diagnostics, hospitalization and complete surgical services. 

• Do I need to call ahead?

  If you can, always call us before arriving. However, we understand that this is not always possible in emergency situations. 

  If your pet's situation does not allow time for you to call, please do not hesitate to bring your pet to our hospital for immediate attention. 

• When is your emergency clinic open?

  We are open 24/7 for 365 days a year. 

• How long will we have to wait to see the vet?

  Just like an emergency department at a regular hospital, this one can be unpredictable and you may need to wait. Unfortunately, we cannot predict which cases will come through our doors and when they will arrive, but we will prioritize cases based on medical need. 

  We offer a comfortable waiting area and will do our best to keep you updated regarding wait times and your pet's status. 

• How long will you keep my pet in the hospital?

  How long your pet will need to stay in our hospital will depend on each specific case. Your veterinarian will be able to provide a better idea of how long your pet will need treatment once our staff have assessed and diagnosed your pet. 

• Can I visit my pet while they are in the hospital?

  We understand that you may feel very worried when your pet is in the hospital. Many of our patients benefit from being visited by their families, so we typically encourage this. Please call us before you intend to visit to ensure your visit can be coordinated with staff availability. 

• Will I be notified of status updates of my pet?

  Yes. We understand that having a pet in the hospital is stressful for you and your family. Your veterinarian will keep you updated on your pet's condition. You are also welcome to call in for updates from our staff regarding your pet's progress. 

• Will you keep in touch with our primary care veterinarian?

  Yes. We keep your primary care veterinarian up to date about your pet's medical files and history to ensure integrated, seamless care.