Urgent & Emergency Care

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We’re Here When You Need Us

We understand that some health problems, injuries, and illnesses require immediate care. If you need pet emergency care, Riverview Animal Clinic is available to assist with urgent and emergency care during our regular business hours. We commit to keeping you informed every step of the way, providing clear communication and support during what we know is a stressful time for any pet parent.

Please call us at (205) 991-9580 in advance of your visit when possible. This helps our staff prepare for your pet’s arrival and attend to their needs faster.

When Is It an Emergency?

It can be challenging to determine between a true pet emergency and an issue that can wait to be seen. If in doubt, please call us at (205) 991-9580 for guidance.

  • Pale gums
  • Rapid breathing
  • Weak or rapid pulse
  • Change in body temperature
  • Difficulty standing
  • Traumatic injury
  • Paralysis
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Active seizures
  • Excessive bleeding

If your pet has eaten or been exposed to something toxic:
Call us at (205) 991-9580. Outside regular hours, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435. Trained toxicologists assess your pet and the ingested substance, then recommend the best course of action. Please note that a fee may be applicable for this service.

Safety Tips and More

Pets who are ill or injured may try to bite, claw, or act aggressively toward those trying to help them. Approach an injured or sick pet slowly and calmly. Say the pet's name and see how they react. Call for assistance if the pet responds aggressively.

  • For a large dog that is unable to move, fashion a makeshift stretcher using a blanket or tarp and ensure their neck is properly supported.
  • For cats, slowly place a blanket or towel over their heads to prevent biting. Then, slowly lift them into an open-topped carrier or box.
  • If possible, elevate and apply pressure to any bleeding wound to help control the bleeding.

Learn more from the AVMA (including information on disaster prep for pets and how to make a pet first aid kit) here: First Aid Tips for Pet Owners

Please see our list of emergency referrals below:

Veterinary Specialists of Birmingham
(Open 24hrs)
https://vsbham.com
146 Resource Center Pkwy, Birmingham, AL 35242
(205) 967-9107

Blue Pearl Birmingham 
https://bluepearlvet.com/hospital/birmingham-al
3470 Galleria Cir, Hoover, AL 35244
(205) 460-2220

Steel City Emergency Vets (Open 24hrs)
http://www.steelcityemergencyvets.com/
1900 Hoover Ct, Hoover, AL 35226

(205) 413-8989