When to call an emergency vet (dogs)
If in doubt, phone — emergency vets and Vets Now triage by phone for free; your home vet should provide an out-of-hours number 24/7.
In the next 60 seconds
- Save your normal vet's number plus their out-of-hours line in your phone now.
- Save Vets Now's emergency line.
- Save Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000).
- Always phone before driving — they can prepare staff and equipment.
- Symptoms warranting emergency call: collapse, seizure, breathing difficulty, severe bleeding, suspected poisoning, suspected bloat (deep-chested breed retching), suspected blocked bladder, hit by car (always), severe pain, suspected snake bite, severe vomiting or diarrhoea, prolonged labour.
First aid steps
- Save your normal vet's number plus their out-of-hours line in your phone now.
- Save Vets Now's emergency line.
- Save Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000).
- Always phone before driving — they can prepare staff and equipment.
- Symptoms warranting emergency call: collapse, seizure, breathing difficulty, severe bleeding, suspected poisoning, suspected bloat (deep-chested breed retching), suspected blocked bladder, hit by car (always), severe pain, suspected snake bite, severe vomiting or diarrhoea, prolonged labour.
Do NOT
- Do not delay phoning while you decide if it's bad enough — they would rather you phone than not.
- Do not drive without phoning ahead.
- Do not assume regular practice is open at night without checking.
Prevention
- Save numbers now.
- Know the route to the nearest 24/7 emergency practice.
- Have insurance details and microchip number to hand.
- Take a Pet First Aid course.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a charge for the phone call?
No — emergency triage by phone is free. Treatment costs depend on what's needed.
What if I can't reach my vet?
All UK vets are required to provide 24/7 cover, often via Vets Now or another emergency provider. The out-of-hours number should be on the practice answering machine.
Should I drive straight to the vet without calling?
Always call ahead if at all possible — they can prep staff, drugs, and oxygen. Even a 30-second call helps.