We’re Here on Good Days and Bad
While we hope our patients are never ill or injured, rest assured that we are here to help if needed. Our skilled staff and excellent diagnostic resources mean that we can get answers rapidly and begin making your pet feel better as fast as possible. If you are bringing your pet in with an urgent or emergency issue, please call (858) 326-4133 so we can be prepared to assist you and care for your pet.
For urgent or emergency needs outside of our regular business hours, please contact:
Veterinary Specialty Hospital—Sorrento Valley
10435 Sorrento Valley Rd.
San Diego, CA 92121
Please know that depending on the type of emergency your pet is experiencing, we may refer you directly to an emergency hospital immediately if we find that is in your pet’s best interest.
For suspected toxin exposure or ingestion outside our regular business hours, contact the ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply). This line is staffed 24/7 with trained veterinary toxicologists who can advise you on what to do.
When is it an Emergency?
Our pets can’t just tell us what’s wrong, which can sometimes make it challenging to determine what’s an emergency and what’s not. If you’re concerned, then we are too—but in general, pet emergencies include (but are not limited to):
- Ingestion of a toxic or poisonous substance, from human foods such as xylitol, chocolate, or garlic to household cleaning agents or automotive fluids
- Fainting, seizures, or collapse
- Fractures, lameness, severe lacerations, and other signs of serious trauma
- Bleeding from the orifices
- Respiratory distress
- Eye injury
- Inability or refusal to drink water or eat food for more than a day
- Lengthy periods between delivery of puppies or kittens in a litter (difficult labor)
- Unexplained disorientation, dizziness, or loss of consciousness
- Inability to urinate or defecate
If you suspect your pet is ill or having a medical emergency, please call us immediately at (858) 326-4133—we’re here to help!
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