Emergency Vet Servicesin Charlottesville, VA
When every second counts, you can rely on Virginia Veterinary Specialty & Emergency (VVSE) in Charlottesville, VA for compassionate, expert care. Our emergency veterinary hospital is equipped to provide immediate, life-saving treatment for dogs and cats experiencing urgent or critical conditions.
Our team of experienced emergency veterinarians and technicians are here to assist you and your pet 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Whether your pet is injured, in pain, or showing sudden signs of illness, we’re ready to help when your regular veterinarian is unavailable.
What you can expect:
- Immedidate life-saving care
- ICU monitoring and support
- On-site diagnostics
- Emergency surgery
How We Prioritize Emergency Cases
A triage level system is used to help the emergency staff prioritize patient's needs. Patients with the most life threatening conditions will be seen first. We understand that bringing your pet to the emergency clinic can be a scary and stressful time, and we diligently work to provide the highest quality of care in the most efficient manner. Wait times may vary depending on severity of other patient's emergencies in our care.
Level 1: Critical
Expect immediate care
- Anaphylaxis
- Collapse
- Heat stroke
- Bloat (GDV)
- Seizures
- Major Trauma
- Penetrating wounds
- Choking
- Toxin ingestion
- Excessive bleeding
- Difficulty breathing
- Blocked cats
- End of life care
Level 2: Urgent
Possible wait times
- Minor allergic reaction
- Frequent vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Snakebite
- Closed fracture
- Blood in urine or feces
- Appetite loss
- Ingestion of a foreign body with no signs of illness
Level 3: Stable
Probable wait times
- Abscess
- Minor Wounds
- Sneezing or nasal discharge
- Coughing
- Limping
- Skin conditions or itching
- Torn toenail
- Irritated eyes or ears
- Changes in chronic conditions
- Dental concerns
If you believe your pet needs emergency veterinary care, please don’t hesitate to come in. Calling ahead at (434) 202-2987 can help us prepare for your arrival and allow our team to offer guidance on first aid or safe transport, if necessary.
Signs Your Pet May Need Emergency Care
- Breathing problems – Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or extended neck posture
- Bleeding – From any area of the body, including blood in urine or stool
- Abnormal gum color – Gums that appear pale, white, dark red, or blue
- Seizures or fainting – Uncontrolled shaking, spasms, or loss of consciousness
- Vomiting or diarrhea – Especially repeated episodes or ongoing issues
- Lethargy – Sudden or prolonged lack of energy or playfulness
- Changes in appetite – Eating or drinking less or refusing food entirely
- Changes in urination – Frequent urination, straining, or inability to urinate
- Weight loss – Gradual or sudden unexplained loss of body weigh
- Pain – Limping, vocalizing, or reacting when touched
- Eye issues – Redness, discharge, squinting, or visible injury
If you’re unsure whether your pet’s condition is an emergency, err on the side of caution and contact us right away.
Estimates & Payment Information
We provide detailed treatment estimates prior to care whenever possible. In critical situations, estimates may vary depending on your pet’s condition and response to treatment.
Full payment is due at the time of discharge. If your pet is hospitalized, a deposit will be required upon admission, with the remaining balance due at discharge. For more details, please visit our Payment Options page.
Contact us with any further questions about Veterinary Emergency Care.