No one plans for a pet emergency.

It may happen late at night, during a holiday, or in the middle of a winter storm. When you are rushing out the door, it can be hard to think clearly. At Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital in Woburn, our Emergency & Critical Care team is here 24 hours a day. A little preparation can help you feel more confident and allow our team to begin care efficiently.

Here is what to bring and what to expect.

What to Bring with You

Recent Medical Records

It's often easy for your referring veterinarian to forward digital medical records. Please ensure that you've requested this if possible, including medical notes, lab work, and imaging reports. If you have access to hard copies, please bring them with your veterinarian's details

Timeline of Symptoms

When did the symptoms start? Have they worsened? Has your pet eaten, vomited, urinated, or defecated recently?

Even brief notes on your phone can help us assess more accurately.

Known Toxin Information

If you suspect ingestion of toxins, bring the packaging or take a photo. You can contact Poison Control prior to your visit and with your pets case number collaboration with your ER Doctor can be facilitated.

A Safe Transport Plan

Use a secure carrier for cats. Dogs should be leashed. If your pet is in pain or injured, handle it carefully to avoid further stress.

If your pet is unstable, please come see us immediately. Do not delay care in order to gather paperwork.

What Happens When You Arrive

You will begin with triage; a trained technician will quickly assess your pet’s condition to determine urgency.

From there, the process may include:

• Physical examination

• Bloodwork

• X-rays or ultrasound

• Pain management and other immediate medications as needed

• Oxygen support

• Hospitalization if needed

Emergency medicine prioritizes stabilization first, then diagnosis.

Financial Transparency

Emergency care can involve advanced diagnostics and intensive monitoring. After initial assessment, our doctor will review:

• Recommended next steps

• Estimated costs

• Treatment options

Our goal is clear communication so you can make informed decisions under difficult circumstances. If you have any questions please make sure you ask them!

Bill Sullivan, Hospital Director at Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital, shares, “Emergencies are stressful enough. Families deserve transparency, compassion, and a team that explains every step clearly.”

Aftercare and Follow-Up

Some patients are discharged with medication and follow-up instructions. Others may require hospitalization or referral to one of our specialty services.

If your pet is admitted, you will receive updates and next-step guidance.

Often ongoing follow up and care is important for successful care, your primary veterinarian is key to success. We also communicate with your primary veterinarian to ensure continuity of care once your pet returns home.

A Community Resource, Day or Night

Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital provides 24-hour Emergency & Critical Care in Woburn, serving pets across the greater New England and Boston area during nights, weekends, holidays, and severe weather events.

Being prepared can ease anxiety, but even if you arrive with nothing but your pet in your arms, our team is ready.

When emergencies happen, we are here.

Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital 24-Hour Emergency & Critical Care in Woburn, MA

Expert Care When It Matters Most