Emergency/critical care

  *For EMERGENCIES that occur outside business hours, please call Roadrunner ER at (505)384-6420 , Mosaic Animal Emergency and Specialty Hospital at (505)416-5840, or Turquoise Trail Urgent Care at (505) 398-8398.*

When seconds count, our advanced emergency and critical care team is ready to provide life-saving intervention for your pet. We do our best to offer same day care and stabilization for acute trauma, respiratory distress, toxin ingestion, and sudden illness.  

Emergency vs. Urgent Care

Understanding the difference helps you decide when to rush in or when a phone call is appropriate.

Emergency Care (Immediate / Life-Threatening- Do Not Delay)Seek emergency care if the issue is a sudden, time-sensitive crisis that requires immediate intervention or potential hospitalization.

• Difficulty breathing: Labored breathing, gasping, or blue/gray gums.
• Major trauma: Hit by a car, falls from significant heights, or deep wounds.
• Severe bleeding: Uncontrolled or excessive bleeding.
• Neurological issues: Seizures (especially if recurring), collapse, or unresponsiveness.
• Toxin ingestion: Known ingestion of poison, chocolate, or household chemicals.
• Abdominal bloating: A hard or distended abdomen (sign of bloat/GDV).
• Inability to urinate: Especially critical for male cats.

Urgent Care (Same-Day / Non-Life-Threatening)Choose urgent care for uncomfortable but stable conditions that need attention today because your primary vet is unavailable.

• Minor injuries: Limping without swelling, small cuts, or broken nails.
• Mild illness: Occasional vomiting or diarrhea (less than 24 hours) where the pet remains alert.
• Infections: Ear infections, minor eye irritation, or skin rashes.
• Behavioral changes: Gradual lethargy or decreased appetite.

When in doubt, call us immediately.  Our team can help you determine the most appropriate level of care for your pet.