Emergency Care 

We know how overwhelming it can be for your pet to experience an emergency when your primary care veterinarian is closed. In those moments of fear and uncertainty, you deserve a team that not only knows what to do medically but also knows how to support you emotionally. At Healing Hearts, we are here and ready to step in–with calm expertise, gentle compassion, and the kind of care we’d want for our own pets.

Our team has your back every step of the way, even after you’ve left our hospital.

What are considered emergencies?

 (The emergencies listed below are just some types of emergencies your pet could face. No one knows your pet better than you. So trust your instinct, and if you feel your pet is not well, we recommend you contact us at 949-409-0333 to speak with our team.) 

  • Bleeding that Won’t Stop
  • Bloat (swollen, painful abdomen)
  • Burns, Snake Bites, or Heat Stroke
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Dystocia (trouble giving birth)
  • Fractures or Suspected Broken Bones
  • Foreign Object Ingestion
  • Hit by a Car or Severe Trauma
  • Inability to Urinate (especially male cats)
  • Open Wounds with Exposed Bone or Tissues
  • Paralysis or Dragging Legs
  • Proptosis (eye popped out)
  • Seizures
  • Severe Allergic Reactions
  • Toxin or Poison Ingestion
  • Unconsciousness or Collapse
  • Vomiting or Diarrhea

What to Expect Upon Arrival at Healing Hearts Emergency Animal Hospital?

When you arrive, we know you may be feeling anxious, scared, or overwhelmed, and that’s okay. One of our trained nurses will gently check on your pet, ask you some questions, and learn more about the situation. This helps us understand how urgently your pet needs care.

If needed, and with your permission, we may take your pet to our treatment area immediately to begin care quickly and safely. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

As soon as a doctor is available, they’ll meet with you to talk through what we’ve found, answer your questions, and walk you through the next steps, so you never feel alone in the process.

 

Triage Explained

Triage saves lives. 

We understand how hard it is to wait, especially when you’re worried about your pet. Please know that every patient matters deeply to us.

Triage means we care for the most critically ill or injured pets first—even if they arrive after you. This system helps save lives by making sure those in the most urgent need get immediate attention.

While we may not always be able to see patients in the order they arrive, we promise your pet is never forgotten. They will be seen as soon as possible, and we’ll keep you updated along the way. Your patience means the world to us and allows us to give every pet, including yours, the thoughtful care they deserve.

 

Courtesy Drop-Off Exams

Need to step away? We understand. 

If wait times are long, please ask us about a courtesy drop-off exam. This allows your pet to stay with us so we can begin care as soon as we’re able, while giving you the flexibility to take a break or step away.

We know your time is valuable, and waiting can be stressful. Our team is here to support you through it. While we prioritize each patient based on their medical needs, we never lose sight of the caregivers who love them.