What to Expect
What to Expect at Pet Emergency Clinic
Visiting an emergency veterinary hospital can feel stressful, especially when your pet is sick, injured, or acting differently than usual. At Pet Emergency Clinic, our goal is to make the process as clear and supportive as possible while providing timely, compassionate emergency veterinary care in Spokane, WA. Understanding how our hospital operates can help you feel more prepared before you arrive.
How Pet Emergency Clinic Operates
When you arrive, our team will assess your pet’s condition and take action based on medical urgency. Pet Emergency Clinic does not operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Like in human healthcare, triage assessments determine which pets need to be treated first.
The more serious the assessment, the quicker the care.
When it is time for your pet’s treatment, we will guide your pet to our treatment area. Pet parents are typically asked to remain in our lobby waiting area or, at times, in an exam room until treatment is completed. You will be reunited with your pet once treatment has been rendered.
For your comfort during your visit, we have vending machines, restrooms, coffee, and tea available.
While your pet is in our care, we will do our best to provide clear communication regarding costs, timing, and expectations. Every pet’s emergency situation and treatment plan is unique.
Throughout the process, we appreciate your patience and understanding as we serve your pet’s medical needs.
Transporting Your Pet Safely
Getting your pet to our hospital safely is an important part of emergency care. If your pet is injured, painful, or frightened, please use caution when moving them.
Cats should be transported in a secure carrier whenever possible. This helps reduce stress and lowers the risk of injury or escape.
Dogs should be brought in on a leash. If your dog cannot walk, you may use a thick blanket to help carefully transport them.
Please handle injured pets carefully, as pain or fear can make even a familiar pet behave unpredictably. Protect yourself from bites and scratches when lifting, carrying, or moving your pet.
What to Do Before Arrival
If possible, call us to let us know you are coming. This can help our team prepare for your arrival, especially if your pet is experiencing a serious emergency. Before you arrive:
- Do not give your pet human medication unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian. What is safe for people is not always safe for pets.
- Bring any current medications your pet is taking.
- Bring available medical records, recent test results, or referral information.
- If your pet may have eaten something poisonous, bring the product or packaging with you to help identify the item and possible amount ingested.
- If your pet is bleeding or has an open wound, carefully apply a clean bandage or cloth to the area and bring them in quickly.
Clear Communication During Your Visit
Emergency visits can involve unexpected decisions, wait times, and costs. Our team will do our best to keep you informed throughout your pet’s visit and explain recommendations as clearly as possible.
Because each pet’s condition is different, timing and treatment needs may vary. Our priority is always to provide the right level of care based on your pet’s medical condition.
We’re Here 24/7
Pet Emergency Clinic is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year for emergency veterinary care in Spokane, WA.
If your pet is experiencing an emergency or you are unsure whether they need urgent care, please call us or come in right away. Our team is here to help when your pet needs us most.