Urgent Veterinary Care in San Rafael
When your pet becomes sick or injured unexpectedly, prompt veterinary care can make all the difference. At Terra Linda Veterinary Hospital, we provide same-day urgent veterinary care in San Rafael for dogs and cats experiencing illnesses or injuries that require prompt medical attention but are not immediately life-threatening.
If you are unsure whether your pet should be seen urgently, please call or text us at (415) 479-8535. Our team can help determine whether an urgent care appointment or emergency hospital visit is the best option.
What types of emergencies do your urgent care services handle?
We treat many non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, including:
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- ear infections
- eye problems
- limping
- wounds and lacerations
- allergic reactions
- coughing
- urinary problems
- loss of appetite
- lethargy
When should I bring my pet to urgent care instead of waiting for a regular appointment?
Contact us when your pet is uncomfortable, develops a sudden illness or injury, or has symptoms that may worsen before a routine appointment is available.
What symptoms indicate my pet needs urgent medical attention?
The following symptoms should be treated promptly:
- persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- difficulty urinating
- eye injuries, limping
- wounds
- allergic reactions
- coughing
- loss of appetite
- lethargy
- sudden behavioral changes
How are urgent care services different from emergency veterinary care?
Urgent veterinary care is for conditions requiring prompt treatment that are not immediately life-threatening.
- Pets experiencing difficulty breathing, severe trauma, collapse, uncontrolled bleeding or ongoing seizures should go directly to a 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital
Can I bring my pet in for urgent care without an appointment?
Please call or text us before arriving. We offer same-day urgent care during regular business hours and will do our best to accommodate your pet as scheduling allows.
What should I bring with me when I bring my pet to urgent care?
Bring any medications your pet takes and relevant medical records, if available. If your pet may have ingested a toxin, medication or foreign object, bring the packaging or a photo whenever possible.
How much time does a typical urgent care visit take?
The length of the visit depends on your pet’s condition and whether diagnostic testing or treatment is needed. Our team will keep you informed throughout the visit.
Will my pet’s urgent care records be shared with their regular veterinarian?
Yes. If Terra Linda Veterinary Hospital is not your pet’s regular veterinarian, we can provide the visit records to their primary veterinary clinic.
What common treatments are offered through urgent care services?
Treatment may include a physical examination, diagnostic testing, medications, wound care, fluids, pain management and other care based on your pet’s individual needs.
Are urgent care services available for all types of pets?
Our San Rafael veterinary urgent care services are available for dogs and cats during our regular business hours.
What should I do if my pet’s condition worsens before I arrive at urgent care?
- Call us immediately for guidance.
- If your pet develops life-threatening symptoms, go directly to the nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital.
Are follow-up appointments necessary after an urgent care visit?
Some pets need follow-up care or additional testing. Our veterinarian will explain any recommended next steps before you leave.
What should I expect during my pet’s urgent care exam?
Our veterinarian will examine your pet, discuss their symptoms and recommend appropriate diagnostic tests or treatment. We will review the proposed care and estimated costs with you before proceeding whenever possible.
Is urgent care available for after-hours pet emergencies?
No. Same-day urgent care is only available during our regular business hours:
- Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- After-hours emergencies should be taken to a 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital.
Is urgent care covered by pet insurance?
Coverage varies by policy. We recommend contacting your pet insurance provider for information about reimbursement and coverage.