Emergency
Emergency Veterinary Services in Ellisville, MO
Tri-City Animal & Bird Clinic understands that emergencies happen. During regular office hours, if you believe your pet has a life-threatening emergency, please give us a call to let us know you are coming. We are equipped to handle most animal emergencies, whether it would be a hit-by-car, dog fight, or whatever other excitement your pet decided to share with you.
By letting us know that you are coming, we can be prepared for your arrival. If we are unavailable and believe your pet needs immediate attention, please do not be offended if we refer you to the Animal Emergency & Referral Center. Be assured that if we do so, we have your pet’s best interests at heart.
If your pet is having an emergency, call us at (636) 227-4041. If we cannot see your pet, we will refer you to VSS Emergency Center at 1021 Howard George Drive, Manchester, MO 63021. They can be contacted at 636-227-6100.
What to Expect When You Arrive at the Veterinary Emergency Clinic
Since all emergencies are different, when you arrive at the emergency clinic, a trained veterinary technician will assess your pet and “triage” it on the basis of how stable it is. Emergency rooms do not function on a “first come, first served” basis. Critical patients will be seen before non-critical patients. If your pet does not have a life-threatening problem, do not be surprised if you have to wait to be seen.
At the emergency clinic severe cases may be immediately transferred back to the emergency hospital treatment ward to be stabilized. You will be required to stay in the exam room or the waiting room while the veterinary team focuses on your pet’s care. Certain diagnostics may need to be done immediately to obtain a tentative working treatment plan for your pet. Because the staff may have seen other emergencies like your pet’s before, they will know what procedures need to be done first. As soon as possible the veterinarian will speak with you. We know you are scared and nervous but your pet’s care is their utmost concern.
No one likes to mention finances when an emergency arises. Please understand that payment is due at the time of service. Unplanned emergencies can get expensive but remember that the Emergency Center is not out to “gouge” you. It is expensive to maintain an emergency team 24 hours a day, and the costs involved with equipment and medications that may be rarely used except in certain emergency situations.