Pet Urgent Care at Five Star Veterinary Center
Walk-In Pet Care and Same-Day Urgent Appointments for Your Pet, in Springfield, Illinois
At Five Star Veterinary Center, we know how disconcerting it can be when your pet isn't feeling their best. Whether your dog suddenly starts limping or your cat can't stop sneezing, these situations are stressful for any pet owner. We are here to support you through those moments and make sure your pet receives the right level of care they need.
Our goal is to provide clear answers and exceptional care when you and your pet need it most. You can count on us to deliver the best, every time. We are a team you can count on.
When to Seek Urgent Care
If your pet is showing any of these symptoms or conditions, an urgent care visit is likely the right choice:
- Allergic reactions with facial swelling or hives
- A sudden decrease in appetite
- Broken toenails or light bleeding
- Coughing or sneezing without distress
- Ear infections or redness
- Eye issues (redness, squinting, discharge)
- Limping or favoring a leg after play
- Minor wounds or small cuts
- Scooting or signs of anal gland discomfort
- Skin irritations like hot spots or excessive licking
- Urinary changes (frequent urination, small accidents)
- Vomiting or diarrhea
What Qualifies as a Pet Emergency?
Some situations go beyond urgent care and need immediate attention. Pet emergencies are critical, life-threatening conditions or extensive trauma that need immediate medical intervention. If your pet is experiencing any of the following symptoms, contact us immediately:
- High fever or low body temperature
- Inability to urinate (especially in male cats)
- Loss of consciousness or extreme lethargy
- Major trauma (e.g., hit by a car, serious fall)
- Pale gums or weak pulse
- Seizures or sudden collapse
- Severe bleeding or deep wounds
- Suspected poisoning or ingestion of toxic substances
- Trouble breathing or choking
- Bloating
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you explain the difference between urgent care and emergency care?
I want to mention the difference between why we call it urgent care as opposed to emergency. Five Star Veterinary Center is very capable of taking any kind of emergency while we're here, but we're not 24/7. That's why we don't call ourselves an emergency hospital because we can't provide 24/7 care. We are open five days a week and can see any emergency at any time, but we are not here overnight. We often assess, triage, and provide initial care for a dog or a cat, and if they truly need critical care, we may send them to a critical care facility. So, that's the difference between urgent care and emergency.
What should pet owners do if they suspect their pet needs urgent care?
At Five Star Veterinary Center, we have doctors on every day between the annex and here, so we will get anyone in who has urgent care needs at any time we're open. If you think something's not quite right, but your pet seems to be eating and drinking, that may be a regular appointment. Owners know their pets well, and if something's not right, let us know, and we'll do our best to get you in ASAP.
Follow these tips for safely transporting your pet to an emergency dog clinic:
- Approach your pet slowly and calmly
- Kneel down and say their name
- If your pet shows aggression, you may need someone to aid you in securing and transporting your pet. Towels may be used around the head or neck to attempt to keep the pet from biting while you move them.
- If he or she is passive, fashion a makeshift stretcher and gently lift them onto it.
- Take care to support the neck and back in case they have suffered any spinal injuries.
- Once secured, immediately transport them to an urgent care clinic. If possible, call ahead to alert the staff to your pending arrival so they can adequately prepare while you are en route.
What is the procedure when a pet is brought in for urgent care?
When you come in, we will assess the pet right away. One of the doctors will take a look immediately, even if our appointments are full. We'll stop what we're doing, assess the situation, run necessary tests, and make sure your pet is monitored carefully. Pain management will be started quickly, and we'll give you an idea of what we plan to do, what the cost is, and involve you in the plan. We'll communicate any changes or concerns while your pet is here.
Can you provide any advice on what to do before bringing in a pet for urgent care?
It's best to call us on your way down here. If we know who your pet is and their size, we can start preparing for the urgent care needs. If it's an emergency, we'll drop everything and take care of your pet. It's important to call ahead if you can, but if you can't, just come in, and we'll take care of you. If they've been exposed to any poison, bring that with you, and get in as soon as you can.
What can pet owners expect in terms of follow-up care?
Some cases, like Ranger's mushroom incident, may not require follow-up care after we address the immediate issue. However, we may check in with you the next day to ensure everything is okay. For more serious cases, we will discuss any necessary follow-up care with you. We aim to keep you informed and involved throughout the process.
Emergency Veterinary Hospitals Near Springfield, Illinois
While we strive to accommodate urgent needs during business hours, some emergencies require more advanced or after-hours care. We recommend keeping these local emergency vet hospitals on hand:
Five Star Veterinary Center Hours for Pet Urgent Care
| Monday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
After hours, please proceed to the nearest emergency hospital.
We’re Here When Your Pet Needs Us Most
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (217) 241-2287, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can.
The Five Star Veterinary Center Difference in Urgent Care
When it comes to your pet’s health, we understand that sometimes urgent situations arise. That’s why Five Star Veterinary Center’s Urgent Care is designed with our mission at heart: to provide the best medicine and surgery in a compassionate environment, alongside unsurpassed customer service.
Here's how Five Star Veterinary Center shines in urgent care:
Exceptional Standards of Care
Your pet receives individualized attention with a high doctor-to-patient ratio, ensuring they’re cared for as one of our own. We prioritize stress reduction and pain management, providing comfort and compassion in every visit.
Unsurpassed Customer Service
From personalized discharge instructions to extensive educational resources, we ensure you feel empowered in your pet’s care journey. Our team takes the time to explain your pet’s condition and recommended treatments, leaving no question unanswered.
Here, When You Need Us
With extended hours, seven-day availability, and same-day drop-off options, your pet’s urgent needs are met promptly.
Follow-Up Care
After your visit, we ensure your pet is doing well because your peace of mind matters to us.
Experienced Team
Our long-term staff know you and your pet, providing continuity of care and trusted guidance.
Kindness and Respect
Our team listens carefully and addresses your care concerns.