Call Evergreen Veterinary Hospital or Go Right to Emergency Care?

It’s not always easy to know whether something requires a veterinary visit—or how urgent a situation might be. If you’re unsure, you’re not alone.

At Evergreen Veterinary Hospital, we encourage you to call whenever you have concerns about your pet. Our team is here to help you decide the best next step.


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Trust Your Instincts

You know your pet better than anyone. If something feels off—even if you can’t quite explain it—that’s a good reason to reach out.

Calling us early can often:

  • Prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems
  • Provide reassurance and guidance
  • Help determine whether your pet needs to be seen right away

When in doubt, calling is always appropriate.

Situations Where You Should Call Us

Common Concerns

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Decreased appetite or not eating
  • Lethargy or behavior changes
  • Limping or stiffness
  • Ear infections or skin issues
  • Coughing or sneezing
  • Changes in drinking or urination
  • Possible ingestion of something they shouldn’t have

Many of these concerns are manageable—especially when addressed early.

Ongoing or Chronic Changes

You should also call us if you notice gradual or ongoing changes, such as:

  • Slowing down with age
  • Difficulty getting up or moving
  • Weight changes
  • Increased anxiety or confusion
  • Changes in sleep patterns

These signs may indicate age-related or chronic conditions that benefit from proactive care.

Veterinarian in teal scrubs reviewing medical records while examining a light-colored Labrador Retriever wearing a cone collar in a clinical setting

What Happens When You Call

When you call Evergreen, a trained member of our team will:

  • Ask questions about what you’re noticing
  • Help determine the urgency of the situation
  • Advise whether your pet should be seen by us or referred for emergency care
  • Assist with scheduling next steps when appropriate

Our goal is to guide you with clarity—not to rush or overwhelm you.

When to Seek Emergency Care Instead

Some situations require immediate, advanced care and are best handled by an emergency veterinary facility.

You should seek emergency care right away if your pet is experiencing:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Seizures that don’t stop or repeat closely together
  • Collapse or inability to stand
  • Severe trauma (such as being hit by a car)
  • Profuse bleeding
  • Extreme pain or distress
  • Suspected poisoning with severe symptoms

If your pet is in immediate danger, going directly to an emergency hospital is often the safest option.

Senior woman kissing her happy white dog by a bright window, showing affection and companionship in a comfortable home setting

How We Support You During Emergencies

Even when emergency care is needed, you’re not on your own.

When possible, we:

  • Help guide you to trusted local emergency facilities
  • Provide relevant medical records when needed
  • Coordinate follow-up care once your pet returns to us

Evergreen remains your partner before, during, and after emergency situations.

Have a Question or Concern?

If you’re unsure what to do, we encourage you to call.

Not Sure What’s The Right Move?

When to go directly to emergency care

Quick Questions & Answers

Is it okay to call even if I’m not sure it’s serious?

What if my pet’s symptoms started overnight or on the weekend?

Will you tell me if my pet needs to go to the emergency hospital?