Urgent Care FAQs

Urgent Care FAQs in Lubbock, TX

Emergency Pet Care at Animal Medical Center in Lubbock, TX

When your pet faces a sudden illness or injury, every moment matters. At Animal Medical Center in Lubbock, TX, our compassionate veterinary team is ready to provide immediate care for urgent and emergency situations. As fellow pet owners, we understand how stressful it can be when your beloved companion is in distress.

Below are answers to some of the most common questions about urgent veterinary care—so you’ll know exactly what to do and what to expect if an emergency arises.

What Are the Symptoms of a Pet Health Emergency?

Recognizing the signs of a serious medical emergency can save your pet’s life. If your pet shows any of the following symptoms, contact us immediately or bring them in for urgent care:

  • Difficulty breathing (wheezing, gasping, or puffing of the lips)

  • Weakness, collapse, or sudden lethargy

  • Severe bleeding or wounds that won’t stop

  • Vomiting or diarrhea that occurs repeatedly or contains blood

  • Changes in behavior or alertness

  • Signs of poisoning, such as drooling, tremors, or seizures

  • Major trauma, such as being hit by a car or falling from a height

  • Signs of pain or distress, including pacing, whining, or hiding

These symptoms may indicate serious internal issues like organ failure, internal bleeding, poisoning, or cardiac distress—all of which require immediate medical attention.


What Checkups and Exams Are Provided During Urgent Care?

During an urgent care visit, our veterinarians will perform a comprehensive physical examination to assess your pet’s condition. Depending on symptoms, we may also conduct diagnostic testing such as:

  • Weight and vital signs evaluation

  • Complete physical exam

  • Bloodwork and lab testing (CBC, chemistry panels)

  • Urine and fecal analysis

  • Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or ultrasound, if needed

These tests help us quickly identify the underlying cause of your pet’s illness or injury so that treatment can begin as soon as possible.


What Conditions Do You Treat?

Our veterinary team is equipped to handle a wide range of emergency and urgent medical conditions, including:

  • Gastrointestinal distress (vomiting, diarrhea, or ingestion of foreign objects)

  • Allergic reactions and skin issues

  • Heatstroke and dehydration

  • Hypothermia or frostbite

  • Poisoning or toxin exposure

  • Seizures or collapse

  • Difficult labor or birthing complications

  • Wound care and surgical recovery issues

  • Lameness or joint injuries

If your pet is experiencing any of these conditions—or if something just seems “off”—our team is ready to help.


What Are the Signs of Heatstroke in Pets?

Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. Common signs include:

  • Weakness or collapse

  • Excessive panting or drooling

  • Glazed eyes or disorientation

  • Bloody diarrhea or vomiting

  • Excessive thirst

  • Staggering or uncoordinated movement

If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cool area immediately and contact us right away. Do not attempt to cool them with ice water—this can cause shock.


How Should I Handle a Pet Emergency?

If your pet becomes sick or injured:

1) Stay calm and assess the situation — Determine if your pet needs urgent or emergency care.

2) Call our office at (806) 794-4118 — Explain your pet’s symptoms so our staff can prepare for your arrival.

3) Bring your pet to our clinic — We’ll evaluate and stabilize them as soon as possible.

Our team is trained to handle emergencies efficiently while keeping your pet as comfortable as possible.


Do You Accept Walk-Ins?

Yes! We welcome all walk-in urgent care cases, whether you’re a new client or a returning one. No appointment is necessary for emergencies—we’re here when you need us most.


Trusted Emergency Veterinarian in Lubbock, TX

At Animal Medical Center, we provide comprehensive urgent care for dogs and cats across Lubbock and surrounding areas. From diagnostic testing to life-saving treatment, our veterinarians are committed to delivering compassionate, expert care when it matters most.

???? Call us now at (806) 794-4118 for emergency assistance or scroll down to schedule a non-urgent appointment online.

Your pet’s health and safety are always our highest priorities.