When a pet emergency happens, everything feels urgent and stressful. Whether your dog suddenly collapses or your cat isn’t acting like themselves, knowing what to expect during an emergency visit can help ease anxiety during an already overwhelming moment. At COVE Pet Care, we provide 24/7 emergency veterinary care in Columbus, Ohio, and our team is here to support both you and your pet every step of the way.
This guide explains what happens when you arrive at COVE’s emergency room, how pets are prioritized for care, why wait times can vary, and how we work together to keep your pet safe and comfortable.
What Is Considered a Pet Emergency?
Some conditions require immediate, life-saving care, while others are urgent but stable. Knowing the difference helps set expectations when visiting an emergency veterinary hospital.
Life-threatening emergencies that need immediate attention include:
- Trouble breathing
- Suspected bloat (GDV)
- Severe or uncontrolled bleeding
- Known toxin ingestion
- Collapse or unresponsiveness
- Hit-by-car or major trauma
- Active seizures
- Straining or inability to urinate (especially in male cats)
Urgent but not critical conditions may include:
- Repeated vomiting
- Suspected closed fractures
- Loss of appetite
- Persistent sneezing or coughing
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty standing or walking
- Cuts or open wounds
Stable, non-emergency cases can include:
- Skin irritation or allergies
- Ear or eye irritation
- New lumps or bumps
- Mild limping
- Abscesses
- Broken or torn nails
- Fleas, ticks, or minor parasite concerns
If you’re ever unsure, it’s always okay to come in. Our team will assess your pet upon arrival.
Arriving at COVE Pet Care: Why Triage Matters
When you arrive at COVE Pet Care’s emergency department, your pet is immediately checked in and triaged. Triage allows our medical team to quickly identify pets who need immediate, life-saving care and ensure they are treated first.
This means:
- Pets with critical conditions may be taken back before others
- Wait times can change based on the severity of incoming cases
- Every pet is assessed and monitored, even while waiting
Our team treats emergency cases around the clock, and prioritizing the most critical patients ensures the best possible outcomes for everyone.
Why Emergency Wait Times Can Vary
Emergency care is unpredictable. While we work as efficiently as possible, wait times may vary depending on:
- The number of incoming emergencies
- The severity of cases being treated
- The need for immediate stabilization or surgery
We also follow thorough safety and medical protocols for every patient. These steps take time, but they allow us to provide safe, accurate, and attentive care for your pet.
Initial Exam, Diagnostics & Communication
Once your pet is triaged and examined, a COVE emergency veterinarian will discuss findings with you. Depending on your pet’s condition, diagnostics may include:
- Bloodwork
- Digital X-rays
- Ultrasound
- Additional monitoring
While you wait, our team will keep you informed about:
- Your pet’s condition
- Recommended diagnostics
- Treatment options and next steps
If anything changes while you’re waiting, or if your pet’s condition worsens, notifying our staff immediately helps us respond quickly and appropriately.
What Pet Owners Can Expect Emotionally
We know emergency visits can feel overwhelming, especially when your pet isn’t feeling well. It’s completely normal to feel worried, stressed, or unsure. Your pet may feel that way too.
At COVE Pet Care, our team is here to support both you and your pet with compassion, transparency, and teamwork. We’re all working toward the same goal: helping your pet feel better as safely and quickly as possible.
How You Can Help During an Emergency Visit
To help your visit go as smoothly as possible:
- Remain in the lobby or your car while your pet is being treated
- Stay available for updates or questions
- Communicate any changes you notice in your pet’s condition
By staying in communication and working together, we can ensure your pet receives the care and attention they need.
Why Columbus Pet Owners Trust COVE Pet Care
- 24/7 specialty & emergency veterinary care
- Experienced emergency and specialty teams
- Advanced diagnostics and treatment capabilities
- Locally owned and hands-on, serving our community with compassion
Thank you for trusting COVE Pet Care with your pet during life’s most stressful moments. We are honored to care for them.
We’re Here When You Need Us Most
If your pet is experiencing an emergency, COVE Pet Care is open 24/7.
📞 Call us or visit covepetcare.com to learn more about our emergency veterinary services in Columbus, Ohio.
