Everyday we are faced with the difficult reality that more patients need our care than we can facilitate. We are prioritizing life threatening emergencies while doing our best to see as many patients as possible. In the event we are unable to provide same day care, we will supply a list of other hospitals in the area that may be available to help.
24/7 Emergency and Critical Care
Wait times and availability vary.
If your pet requires emergency services please follow the online registration steps below so that we can determine if we can help you and your pet.
If your pet is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please come to the hospital immediately and call 253-983-1114.
About our department:
Every effort is made to schedule emergencies directly with the appropriate specialty service, but in some cases admission and initial management occurs in our critical care unit under supervision of critical care and emergency doctors. All of our doctors are highly skilled and able to provide diagnostic and supportive care. Internal consultations with appropriate specialists may be facilitated. You may not be able to immediately speak with a particular specialist directly, but your pet will be fully cared for in the interim.
For veterinarians seeking ER transfers or referrals:
We welcome transfers of patients that may require intensive support, monitoring, and 24-hour care. If you wish to transfer an emergency patient directly from your hospital, we request that you call to speak with the receiving doctor or service so that we may be prepared for your patient and client. Please fax relevant records to 253-983-1115 as soon as they are available. Feel free to provide clients with our client information and patient history forms which they may fill out on the way.
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What happens if I come to the hospital without checking in first?You can check in with the front desk once you arrive! Our triage team will assess your pets condition, and stable patients presenting with non-emergent issues may be offered the next available Urgent Care appointment. If the Urgent Care Service is full for that day, you may enter the queue to be seen by one of our ER veterinarians.
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What if I decide I no longer want/need to have my pet seen?If you checked in online, please Reply “9” to cancel your reservation at any time. Alternatively, you may call the hospital and let our receptionists know so we can take your pet out of the waiting queue.
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What type of concerns are seen by Urgent Care?Below is a list of conditions that warrant presentation at a veterinary urgent care. The Urgent Care service is a same-day, appointment based service that serves as a bridge between general practice veterinary clinics and our 24-hour Emergency and Critical Care Department. If a pet ultimately needs more advanced care and/or hospitalization, referral to the Emergency and Critical Care Service is available. Mild to Moderate Lameness: Sudden limping or difficulty walking without any observed trauma. Minor Wounds: Small cuts, abrasions, or puncture wounds not involving deep tissues or major organs. Mild to Moderate Vomiting or Diarrhea: Without any accompanying severe symptoms, such as blood in the vomit or stool. Mild Allergic Reactions: Swelling, hives, or itching without respiratory distress. Ear Infections: Signs may include scratching at the ears, head shaking, or mild discharge. Eye Discharge or Mild Redness: Without any traumatic injury or sudden blindness. Skin Conditions: Rashes, mild bites, localized hair loss, or hot spots. Urinary Issues: Difficulty urinating, increased frequency, or minor blood in the urine. Upper Respiratory Infections: Mild coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge. Loss of Appetite: Refusing to eat for less than 24 hours without any other severe symptoms. Behavioral Changes: Mild anxiety, slight disorientation, or other behavioral issues without acute distress or aggression. Sudden Flea or Tick Infestation: Requires prompt treatment but not an emergency. Constipation or Minor Digestive Upsets: Without severe pain or accompanying symptoms. Please note that the Summit Urgent Care service does not replace the need for a primary care veterinarian. We do not provide nail trims, wellness exams, grooming appointments, health/travel certificates, or surgeries.
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When are Urgent Care Services available?Currently, Urgent Care appointments are available on Mondays from 8am to 5pm. There are no Urgent Care services available on December 25th or January 1st. To schedule an appointment with the Urgent Care team, a $220 non-refundable exam fee will be necessary to pay when making your appointment and to hold your spot.