Just like us, there are times when our furry family members need emergency care. There are certain symptoms that need immediate attention for your pets to have the best chance at recovery. At AMC we are open 24/7 for your pet’s emergency needs including holidays. If able to do so, call ahead for our team to be prepared for your pet’s arrival.

Signs indicating immediate veterinary care:

• Difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness (open mouth breathing in cats)

• Seizures

• Severe vomiting and/or diarrhea

• Trauma (hit by a motor vehicle, attacked by an animal, fall)

• Any trauma or problems with an eye

• Suspect broken bones

• Ingestion of household chemicals (soaps, drain cleaners, potpourri, or essential oils)

• Ingestion of human or other pet’s medications

• Ingestion of foreign object

• Ingestion of chocolate, sugar free gum with xylitol, grapes, raisins, garlic, rodenticide, petroleum products and/or antifreeze

• Heat stroke

• Distended abdomen and/or hard abdomen

• Nonproductive retching

• Significant lethargy

• Pale gums

• Inability or straining to urinate (especially important in male cats)

• Prolonged or complicated labor

• Allergic reaction (hives, bumps, swollen face)

• Seizures

• Collapse, extreme weakness or inability to stand or support weight

• Difficulty or pain in defecating

• Bleeding from the eyes, nose, mouth, or blood in vomit, urine or feces.

• Vomiting or diarrhea (especially if more than 24 hours)

• Not eating or drinking for more than 24 hours

When life threatening illnesses or injuries happen, we understand it can be a stressful time. However, it is important for both you and your pet to arrive safely. We recommend having the injured or ill pet transported securely in the car to prevent any further injury to themselves and even you. If possible, please bring any medical records and medication your pet is on, especially if you are a new client with AMC.

When you arrive at our emergency hospital, you’ll be greeted by one of our experienced Client Service Representatives (CSRs) at the front desk. They will gather some basic information about your pet and the reason for your visit. If your pet is in critical condition, they will be taken back immediately to be triaged by our emergency veterinary team. If your pet is stable, one of our emergency technicians will complete the triage process.

As an emergency facility, we prioritize the most critical cases first. Stable patients are seen in the order they arrive. During check-in, our CSR team will provide you with an estimated wait time to be seen by an emergency veterinarian. Please note that this estimate may change depending on the arrival of more critical cases.

Throughout your visit, we are committed to delivering the highest level of care and diagnostics for your pet; while keeping you informed every step of the way. We value transparency regarding costs, wait times, and expectations, and we strive to make your experience as smooth and compassionate as possible.

If you have any questions regarding whether your pet needs emergency care or general questions about AMC, please do not hesitate to give us a call at (815) 436-8387 and one of our CSRs will be happy to assist!