OUR SERVICES
With four emergency veterinarian locations in the Central Florida area, we are ready to handle any emergency your pet may have. Our clinics have the latest technology and experienced veterinarians available to quickly address any medical problem your pet may be experiencing.
CALL US NOW- (407) 644-4449
SEE OUR LOCATIONS
OUR SERVICES
With four emergency veterinarian locations in the Central Florida area, we are ready to handle any emergency your pet may have. Our clinics have the latest technology and experienced veterinarians available to quickly address any medical problem your pet may be experiencing.
CALL US NOW- (407) 644-4449
SEE OUR LOCATIONS
Comprehensive physical exam
Every pet that sees a veterinarian at the Veterinary Emergency Clinic will receive a comprehensive physical exam. The physical exam is the first step and will often provide clues about what is wrong with your pet
Surgery and Anesthesia
If your pet does need emergency surgery, we will discuss the procedure, potential complications, post op care and expected recovery time with you. We will keep you informed every step of the way.
Radiology (X-Rays) and Ultrasound
VEC utilizes a modern, digital system for taking x-rays of your pet. Our experienced veterinarians will discuss any abnormal findings with you and recommend next steps.
In House Diagnostic Laboratory
In an emergency, diagnostic test results are needed immediately so appropriate treatment can begin. Therefore, all four locations of VEC have in-house diagnostic testing to provide prompt results.
In House Pharmacy
In an emergency, prompt treatment is needed. Therefore, all four VEC locations have fully stocked pharmacies.
Oxygen Therapy and Blood Transfusions
All four VEC locations are equipped with oxygen tanks and chambers to help your pet, as well as the capability of administering blood products to your dog or cat.
We are open when you need us most.
Open Hours
OUR CASSELBERRY, VILLAGES, AND OAKLAND LOCATIONS ARE OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK
OUR WATERFORD LAKES HOURS ARE LISTED BELOW
Weeknights: 6pm - 7:30am
Weekends: 6pm Friday - 7:30am Monday
Major Holidays: 24/7
Common pet emergencies
If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms, call VEC at (407) 644-4449. We can guide you to the closest location where we always have veterinary staff available with access to services including diagnostics, fluid therapy, ultrasound, anesthesia, surgery, hospitalization, and medication.
Seizures
Seizures are scary for pet owners to watch, and they can result in serious injuries in a cat or dog whom has lost muscle control due to the seizure. While the cause of seizures—particularly those that do not come in clusters—is generally not life-threatening, it is best to see the veterinarian right away for a diagnosis.
Restlessness
If your dog appears restless, uncomfortable lying down, or is unsuccessfully trying to vomit, he may have gastric dilation, or bloat, which is an urgent situation that should be treated in the emergency clinic.
Loss of Appetite
Some pets will refuse their food from time to time, while others will never skip a meal, so you will want to consider your pet’s normal habits when determining if they have lost their appetite. If your dog or cat has not eaten for a full day, there is a significant chance that they are sick, and likely not drinking enough water.
Excessive Vomiting and/or Diarrhea
A dog or cat may occasionally have diarrhea or vomiting, but these symptoms can be a sign of emergency when they are persistent. Blood in the vomit or stool should be particularly concerning, since this may be a sign of internal bleeding.
Poisoning
Dogs and cats may get into foods or household chemicals that can be poisonous when ingested, so you should always keep an eye on what your pet eats around the house. Items like grapes, plants treated with herbicides, chocolate, and human medication can all be harmful to your pet, so you’ll want to call the veterinarian immediately if you think your pet has ingested something unsafe.
Loss of Appetite
Some pets will snub their food from time to time, while others will never skip a meal, so you will want to consider your pet’s normal habits when determining if he has lost his appetitie. If your dog or cat has not eaten for a full day, there is significant change he is sick and likely not drinking enough water.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is there a veterinarian present at all times?
Florida law does not require an emergency clinic to have a veterinarian on premises during operating hours. VEC takes pride in the fact that from the moment we open our doors to the moment we close them one of our highly skilled veterinarians will be available for you and your pet.
Are the staff and veterinarians experienced in emergency medicine?
When you arrive at VEC, our main focus is the well-being of your pet. Knowledgeable receptionists and skilled veterinary nurses are the first of our highly trained, professional staff to greet you. A veterinarian, with extensive experience in emergency and critical care medicine, is always on staff during operating hours.
Do I Need an appointment?
Our receptionists and veterinary nurses perform the task of patient triage prior to patients meeting with the veterinarian. Triage is a process of prioritizing patients based on the severity of their medical condition. Triage is important to ensure the most critical patients are quickly identified and attended to. As such, patients are not always seen in order of arrival and we are unable to take appointments.
What types of medical problems require immediate attention?
Some medical conditions may require immediate action by our veterinary staff. These may include excessive bleeding, active seizures, labored breathing, severe trauma and shock.
If my pet is critical and taken into the treatment area may I accompany my pet?
If staff determines your pet’s condition is critical, your pet will be transported immediately from the waiting or exam room into the Treatment Area of the hospital for rapid assessment and medical attention. Owners may not accompany patients into the Treatment Area during medical procedures due to insurance liability reasons. Staff will, however, keep you well informed of your pet’s status during this period. Once your pet is stabilized, we will make every effort to make visitation possible.
What if my pet is stable and the emergency is minor?
If your pet is in stable condition, you will both be placed into the first available exam room and given Client Information paperwork to complete. A veterinary nurse will ask you questions about your pet’s medical history, the current problems the pet is experiencing and obtain a body weight and temperature. Afterwards, the veterinarian will conduct a full physical examination of your pet and discuss recommended diagnostic testing and/or treatments based on the exam.
How much will diagnostics and treatment cost?
Comprehensive physical exams are $140 day or night.
Prior to performing any testing, medical procedures or treatments, our staff will provide an estimate of the anticipated costs associated with your pet’s care for your approval. Depending on the nature and severity of the illness afflicting your pet, the veterinarian may recommend outpatient treatment for minor emergencies or, for critical cases, advise that your pet remain hospitalized in our facility. Deposits are required for all hospitalized pets.
What forms of payment can i use? can i be billed for services or make payments?
VEC accepts all major credit cards, Care Credit, debit cards and cash for payment of services. We are unable to accept checks. Payment in full for your pet’s medical care is due at the time of discharge from the hospital. We do not offer payment plans or billing arrangements.
