How to get urgent veterinary help at night or at the weekend
Katerina Galkina · EN · 07/10/2026
Читать на русскомIf your animal suddenly becomes unwell, is injured or may have swallowed a dangerous substance, call a vet immediately. At night or during the weekend, start with your usual practice's number: its recording or staff should direct you to the emergency service. RCVS: emergency and out-of-hours care ↗.
Obtain veterinary triage
Give the species, age, approximate weight, symptoms, when they began and any possible cause. Mention medication and long-term conditions. For suspected poisoning, keep the packaging or a photograph if safe.
Answer the duty team's questions and establish where to go now. Do not wait for a routine appointment just because the practice is closed. Describe breathing difficulty, collapse, serious trauma or suspected poisoning immediately; the vet determines the urgency in the individual case.
Confirm the address and transport
A different practice may provide the emergency cover. Confirm the exact address, entrance, expected arrival time and whether it treats your species. Owners normally arrange transport; a home visit is not guaranteed. RCVS requirements ↗.
Take an appropriate carrier or safe restraint, records and a medication list. Follow instructions for moving an injured animal. Do not give human painkillers, induce vomiting or start a home “antidote” without veterinary instructions.
Discuss payment without delaying care
Ask for the emergency consultation price, an initial estimate and any deposit. Out-of-hours services may cost more than daytime appointments. Explain financial limits immediately and provide insurance details. Ask about treatment stages and authorising costs. Payment plans and direct insurance claims depend on the practice and are not guaranteed. RCVS: fees and pricing ↗.
Obtain a discharge plan
Request written instructions covering medicines, the next appointment and signs requiring another immediate call. Confirm that records will reach your usual vet. Keep invoices and the discharge summary, particularly for insurance claims or treatment at another practice.