When a pet is suddenly sick or injured, the first step is a veterinary assessment. At Boca Veterinary Clinic in Boca Raton, emergency evaluation and treatment are available during clinic hours, seven days a week. Call 561-392-6540 and explain your pet’s symptoms before arriving when possible.
Clinic hours: Monday–Friday 7:30am–7pm, Saturday 8am–6pm and Sunday 9am–5pm. Our clinic is not open 24 hours a day. If we are closed and your pet needs emergency attention, seek an open emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
Evaluation and stabilization come first
The veterinary team assesses your pet’s condition and determines the next steps. A pet with breathing difficulty, severe bleeding or another critical problem may need stabilization before a complete diagnostic workup. Let the team know about changes in breathing, consciousness, mobility, urination or behavior, as well as any possible injury or toxin exposure.
Our emergency services include medical stabilization, oxygen therapy and fluid therapy when indicated. Not every pet needs every treatment. The veterinarian chooses care based on examination findings and the individual situation.
Laboratory testing for urgent cases
In-house laboratory testing can provide information that supports a diagnosis and treatment plan. Depending on the case, the veterinarian may recommend blood testing, urine testing or other laboratory work. Results are considered alongside the examination, symptoms and medical history.
Some conditions need additional tests or outside laboratory services. Ask the veterinary team what a recommended test is intended to show, when results are expected and how it may affect treatment.
Digital X-rays and ultrasound
Digital radiology and ultrasound provide different types of information. X-rays can help evaluate bones and certain chest or abdominal concerns. Ultrasound helps assess internal structures and may be recommended when the veterinarian needs additional information.
Echocardiography evaluates the heart. The appropriate imaging study depends on the suspected problem, your pet’s stability and the veterinarian’s findings. Imaging does not replace a veterinary examination, and it may be combined with laboratory testing.
When surgery or additional treatment is needed
Some emergencies require veterinary surgery. Boca Veterinary Clinic’s emergency page describes surgical care for problems such as foreign bodies, internal bleeding and wounds when indicated. The veterinarian evaluates the case, discusses recommended treatment and explains the next steps.
Other pets may need medication, monitoring or hospitalization. Ask the team about the monitoring plan, expected duration of care and arrangements needed outside clinic hours. Do not assume that extended opening hours mean overnight emergency reception or continuous overnight staffing.
What information helps the veterinary team?
- Your pet’s species, age and relevant medical conditions
- The symptoms and when they began
- Current medications and known allergies
- Recent injuries, unusual food or possible toxin exposure
- Changes in eating, drinking, breathing, urination or activity
- Available records from previous veterinary care
For suspected poisoning, bring product packaging if available and contact a veterinarian or ASPCA Poison Control at 888-426-4435. The poison-control service operates 24 hours a day; a consultation fee may apply. Do not delay emergency care to gather documents.
Discussing tests, estimates and next steps
Diagnostic and treatment recommendations depend on your pet’s needs. Ask what each recommended test can show, whether stabilization is needed first, and what follow-up or monitoring may be required. Costs vary by condition and treatment; request an estimate for the recommended plan.
Meet our veterinarians and find directions to our clinic at 22191 Powerline Rd Suites 14A–B, Boca Raton, FL 33433.
Frequently asked questions
Will my pet need every diagnostic test?
No. The veterinarian recommends tests based on your pet’s symptoms, examination, history and stability. Different tests answer different questions, and the plan is tailored to the case.
What is the difference between X-rays and ultrasound?
X-rays and ultrasound show different types of information about the body. The veterinarian selects imaging based on the suspected problem and may combine it with laboratory testing.
Does every pet emergency require surgery?
No. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the problem. Some pets need medical care, while others may require surgery or additional monitoring after veterinary evaluation.
Does hospitalization mean the clinic is open overnight?
No. Hospitalization services and public opening hours are different. Ask the team about your pet’s monitoring arrangements and any care needed outside regular clinic hours.
How do I arrange urgent veterinary evaluation?
Call Boca Veterinary Clinic at 561-392-6540 during clinic hours: Monday–Friday 7:30am–7pm, Saturday 8am–6pm and Sunday 9am–5pm. If we are closed and your pet has an emergency, seek an open emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
Emergency preparation resource: AVMA pet first aid and emergency transport guide. First aid does not replace veterinary care.
