When something feels “off” with your pet, it can be hard to know what to do next.

Should you wait until morning? Call your primary veterinarian? Head to the emergency hospital right away?

At Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital in Woburn, our Emergency & Critical Care team sees everything from mild concerns to life-threatening crises. Knowing which signs require immediate attention can help you act confidently when minutes matter.

Seek Immediate Emergency Care If You Notice:

Some symptoms should never wait.

Difficulty Breathing

Labored breathing, open-mouth breathing in cats, blue or pale gums, or persistent coughing with distress require immediate evaluation.

Collapse or Unresponsiveness

Sudden weakness, fainting, or inability to stand can signal serious cardiovascular, neurological, or internal conditions.

Active Seizures

A seizure lasting more than a few minutes or repeated seizures within a short period of time warrants urgent care.

Severe Trauma

Being hit by a car, falling from a height, or any major accident should be evaluated even if your pet initially appears stable.

Uncontrolled Bleeding

Bleeding that does not stop with pressure requires immediate attention.

Suspected Toxin Ingestion

Chocolate, xylitol, medications, household chemicals, or plants can become emergencies quickly.

“Certain conditions can deteriorate rapidly,” says Dr. Cecilie Brennan, DVM, Emergency & Critical Care, Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital. “If you are unsure but something seems severe or sudden, it is safer to have your pet evaluated.”

Urgent but Possibly Stable Concerns

Other symptoms may be urgent but not immediately life-threatening. These include:

• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea

• Straining to urinate

• Lameness with significant pain

• Eye injuries

• High fever

• Sudden behavior changes

If you are uncertain, call us. Our team can help guide you.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

In emergency medicine, early intervention can:

• Prevent shock

• Reduce organ damage

• Improve recovery outcomes

• Shorten hospitalization time

Dr. Scott Taylor, BVSc, DACVECC, Veterinary Criticalist at Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital, explains, “Emergency and critical care focuses on rapid stabilization to prevent complications and give patients the best possible chance for recovery.”

Trust Your Instincts

You know your pet best. Subtle signs such as unusual quietness, pacing, restlessness, or pale gums can signal something serious.

If you feel something is wrong, do not ignore that instinct.

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

When in doubt, call ahead on your way. Our team is here to help you make informed decisions quickly.

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

Expert Care When It Matters Most