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Pet Emergencies

If your pet is experiencing anything that makes you uncomfortable, take the next step and call us. Even if you're uncertain you are having an emergency you can take comfort in knowing that one of our skilled technicians will speak with you to determine if your pet is in need of medical assistance. When in doubt, call:

303-740-9595

Your visit to the Emergency Room

We understand that when a pet gets sick, it can be a very emotional time. We are here to provide the most advanced diagnostics and therapies around the clock to give your pet every advantage to make a successful recovery. It is important that you know what to expect should they require hospitalization.

Keeping you informed

Every day that your pet is in the hospital, the doctor will have an in depth discussion with a designated family member. We will discuss your pet's progress, available test results and work with you to develop a plan for continued care. On most days, phone calls will be made before noon. Of course, if we ever have a concern about your pet's status, you will be called immediately.

Visitation

We encourage hospital visits. Visiting hours are between 3-5pm and 7-9pm. These times have been designated around important patient treatments to allow you to spend time with your pet, while ensuring they continue to receive the vital therapy required.

Costs

We will give you an estimate of the approximate costs for the initial treatment and therapy we've discussed with you. A deposit of 50% of the initial estimate is due at the time of hospitalization and the remaining portion is expected at hospital discharge. We certainly understand how expensive some medical costs can be. We offer a payment plan, called CareCredit, which provides funds, interest-free for 6 months. If you are interested in applying for such a program, please notify our reception staff. If you'd like more information about this topic, read our discussion about the cost of care.

Discharge

When your pet is ready to go home, we will provide written discharge instructions, which will outline your animal's condition, remaining concerns, what to monitor for and how to care for your pet during recovery at home. Discharge hours are between 3-5pm or 7-9pm, when we have allocated time for one of our technicians to review these discharge instructions with you, show you how to administer any medications and answer all of your questions.

Be Prepared

  • Post your primary care veterinarian and AHSC's phone number near the phone for easy access by family or sitters.

  • Post the phone number of Animal Poison Control (1-800-222-1222).

  • Make sure your pet always wears an identification tag.

  • Microchip your pet so that it can be identified electronically if lost.

  • Since emergencies are an unexpected cost for owners, consider getting pet insurance or qualifying for credit plans like Care Credit.

  • Consult with your primary care veterinarian or AHSC about pet first-aid preparations.

  • In case of a natural disaster, have a plan to evacuate your pet.

    • Is This a Problem?

    Did you know that one of the most common reasons for medical emergencies in pets is intoxication? The AHSC has an extensive database of possible side effects associated with a variety of potentially toxic substances. We also utilize veterinary toxicologists at the Animal Poison Control Center allowing for rapid identification and treatment. Some of the most common toxins are not considered harmful to people! Here is a list of common animal toxins:

  • Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS)- such as aspirin and ibuprofen

  • Anti-Depressant Medications

  • Heart Medications

  • Chocolate

  • Grapes/Raisins

  • Sugar-Free Gum containing xylitol

  • Some Nuts

  • Certain House and Garden Plants

  • Anti-Freeze

  • Rodenticides

    • Should your pet ingest any of these substances, call us immediately or just bring your pet or just bring your pet through our emergency service.