What to Expect
From the moment you arrive, our team is focused on making your visit as comfortable and clear as possible. We take time to listen, answer your questions, and explain every step of your pet’s care. Whether you’re here for a routine checkup or something more urgent, you can expect attentive service, compassionate communication, and a team dedicated to your pet’s well-being.
Emergencies rarely seem to happen during ‘normal business hours.’
That is why 1st Pet Veterinary Centers are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We know that it can be very frightening when the furry members of your family need emergency care, so we do everything we can to make it easier for your pet, and for your family.
Emergency Care Process at 1st Pet
When you bring your pet to 1st Pet for emergency care, a veterinary technician will first perform a triage exam to determine the urgency of your pet’s condition, with the most critical cases treated first. In most cases, you and your pet will be placed in a private care suite for comfort, though you may wait in the lobby if you prefer. Because emergencies are unpredictable, pets are not always treated in order of arrival, and precise wait times are difficult to provide. Stable pets may face longer waits, but staff will communicate updates and may allow you to leave and return closer to treatment time. Once your pet is examined, the veterinarian will discuss treatment options, costs, and payment plans before proceeding, unless immediate intervention is required. If hospitalization is necessary, a treatment plan and a 75% deposit will be required, with final payment due at discharge. Owners are welcome to visit their hospitalized pets, though visits are limited for the pet’s well-being. Throughout the process, your primary veterinarian will be kept informed, and if you do not have one, 1st Pet can connect you with a general practice doctor for ongoing care.
If Your Pet Needs to Stay With Us FAQs
If hospitalization is recommended, here is how we keep you informed and how your pet is cared for during their stay.
You can call anytime for an update. Our nursing team can share how your pet is doing, and if a doctor is needed, they will return your call.
Doctors provide update calls during morning and evening rounds. If your pet’s condition changes at any time, we contact you right away. You will also hear from us after diagnostics, procedures, or treatment changes.
Yes. Visiting is welcomed and may take place in a private room or at your pet’s bedside depending on their medical needs.
Calling ahead can help reduce wait time. Some ICU, oxygen, or isolation patients may have modified visitation for safety.
Yes. Hospitalized pets are monitored by trained technicians and doctors throughout their stay.
Vital signs, comfort, pain management, and overall condition are regularly checked. Critical patients receive prioritized observation and updates.
Your pet will have a clean, comfortable space tailored to their condition. Walks are provided when appropriate, and food and water are given based on what is medically safest.
Emergency care can change quickly, but our team will keep you informed clearly and consistently.