When Your Pet Needs Help Right Now
Veterinary emergencies are stressful. LocalVet can help you find an emergency vet quickly, but please remember: if your pet is in immediate danger, call the nearest emergency clinic directly.
Finding an Emergency Vet
- Go to the LocalVet homepage.
- Click the Emergency button or use the "Open Now" filter.
- Allow location access for the fastest results, or type your postcode.
- Results will show emergency and after-hours clinics sorted by distance.
What Counts as a Veterinary Emergency?
You should seek emergency care if your pet is experiencing any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing — gasping, wheezing, or blue-tinged gums.
- Severe bleeding — that does not stop with gentle pressure after 5 minutes.
- Suspected poisoning — ingestion of chocolate, rat bait, antifreeze, medications, or toxic plants.
- Inability to urinate — especially in male cats, this can be life-threatening within hours.
- Seizures — lasting more than 2 minutes or occurring in clusters.
- Trauma — hit by a car, severe fall, or animal attack.
- Bloated abdomen — especially in large breed dogs, which may indicate gastric torsion.
- Collapse or unconsciousness — sudden inability to stand or respond.
What to Do While You Travel
- Call the clinic ahead so they can prepare for your arrival.
- Keep your pet as calm and still as possible.
- If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth.
- Do not give any human medications to your pet.
- Bring any packaging from substances your pet may have ingested.
Important Disclaimer
LocalVet is a directory service, not a veterinary practice. We do not provide medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. The information on this page is for general guidance only. Always contact a licensed veterinarian for medical decisions about your pet. In a life-threatening emergency, call your nearest emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
