Emergency Vet vs. Your Regular Vet: What's Different and How to Plan
By Dr. Kirk Wright, DVM · Updated
It seems like most emergencies happen at night, on weekends, or on holidays, when your regular vet is closed. That is when owners meet the emergency hospital for the first time, usually at the worst moment.
This article is not about deciding whether something is an emergency. That is not something I can do from here, and the safe answer is always to call a veterinarian. It is about knowing in advance what is different, so you are not making money and logistics decisions while you are scared.
How an emergency hospital works
- It is staffed around the clock, or through the night, with doctors and nurses ready for urgent cases.
- It often has equipment on hand for urgent testing and monitoring.
- Patients are seen by urgency, not by arrival time, so a wait is normal.
- It usually does not have your pet's full history unless you bring it or your regular vet sends it.
That readiness is a large part of why costs differ from a daytime general practice, sometimes significantly.
What to expect with payment
Many emergency hospitals ask for an estimate to be approved and a deposit paid before treatment, and for the balance when your pet goes home. Policies vary, so ask. Ask for the estimate in writing and what is not included.
Get ready now, while things are calm
- Find the nearest 24-hour emergency hospital and save its name, address, and phone number in your phone.
- Save your regular vet's number and ask what they do after hours.
- Keep a short record of your pet's medications, allergies, and vaccine history where you can grab it.
- Save the poison control numbers listed at the bottom of every page on this site.
- Think ahead about how you would pay, using our articles on building an emergency fund and on pet insurance as a starting point.
If you are unsure whether something is an emergency, call. It is always fine to call.
Afterward
Ask the emergency team to send records to your regular vet, and schedule a recheck. Your regular vet and the emergency team work best together when each knows what the other did.
Frequently asked questions
Should I call my regular vet first?
If they are open, a phone call is a good idea. If your pet may be in danger, go to or call an emergency hospital. When in doubt, call a veterinarian.
Can I ask for a cheaper plan at an emergency hospital?
You can ask about options and what is essential now. Say what you can manage. Emergency teams deal with this often.
Educational information only. This is not veterinary advice for your pet and does not replace an exam by your veterinarian. Emergencies and disclaimer.
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