Fast Action Can Save Your Pet’s Life

As pet owners, we never want to imagine our dog or cat experiencing a medical emergency. But accidents and illnesses can happen without warning, and knowing where to turn can make all the difference.

At Animal Works, we understand how stressful these situations can be. While we are not a 24-hour emergency hospital, we are often able to help with pre-diagnosed emergency surgeries during our regular business hours. Our experienced team works hard to accommodate urgent surgical cases whenever possible.

When Is It an Emergency?

Some medical situations simply can’t wait. If your pet is experiencing any of the following, they should be evaluated by a veterinarian immediately:

• Difficulty breathing

• Hit by a vehicle

• Severe bleeding that won’t stop

• Collapse or inability to stand

• Repeated vomiting with signs of pain

• Seizures

• Suspected poisoning

• Swollen, painful abdomen

• Difficulty urinating (especially male cats)

• Broken bones or major trauma

Even if you’re unsure whether it’s an emergency, it’s always better to call and ask.

Emergency Surgeries We May Be Able to Perform

During our regular office hours, Animal Works will do our very best to accommodate urgent surgical cases, including:

🐾 Cesarean Sections (C-Sections)

When a mother is unable to safely deliver her puppies or kittens, a timely C-section can save both mom and babies.

🐾 Blocked Cats (Urethral Obstruction)

A urinary blockage in male cats is a true medical emergency. Without treatment, it can quickly become life-threatening.

🐾 Foreign Body & Intestinal Blockage Surgery

Dogs and cats sometimes swallow toys, bones, socks, string, or other objects that become lodged in the digestive tract. Surgery may be necessary to remove the obstruction.

🐾 Fracture & Broken Bone Repair

Traumatic injuries from falls, accidents, or other incidents may require surgical stabilization.

🐾 Laceration & Wound Repair

Deep cuts, bite wounds, and severe injuries often need surgical cleaning and closure to prevent infection and promote healing.

🐾 Pyometra Surgery

Pyometra is a serious infection of the uterus that most commonly affects unspayed female dogs and cats. Emergency surgery is often the only life-saving treatment.

🐾 Splenectomy

Removal of the spleen may be necessary if there is a ruptured splenic mass, internal bleeding, or certain cancers.

Timing Matters

Because we are a small but dedicated veterinary team, we encourage owners to contact us as early in the day as possible if an emergency surgery is needed.

Unfortunately, we may not always be able to accommodate emergency surgeries later in the afternoon, particularly after 3:00 PM (MDT).

If your pet requires emergency care outside of our availability, we will recommend a nearby 24-hour emergency hospital.

If We Can’t Help, Emergency Care Is Available

If your pet needs immediate care when Animal Works is closed or we’re unable to accommodate the case, we recommend contacting one of these trusted 24-hour emergency hospitals:

• Fort Collins Veterinary Emergency Hospital

• Colorado State University Veterinary Emergency Care

• VCA Veterinary Specialists of Northern Colorado

• Four Seasons Veterinary Specialists

These hospitals provide around-the-clock emergency and critical care for pets throughout Northern Colorado.

Being Prepared Can Save Precious Time

Emergencies are frightening, but having a plan before one happens can reduce stress and help your pet receive care faster.

Keep the phone numbers for your regular veterinarian and your nearest emergency hospital saved in your phone. If you suspect your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, don’t wait to see if they improve—call immediately.

The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances for a positive outcome.

Animal Works Is Here to Help

While we are not a 24-hour emergency facility, we are proud to offer compassionate, high-quality emergency surgical care during our regular business hours whenever possible. Our goal is to provide timely treatment, clear communication, and exceptional care when your pet needs it most.

If you believe your pet may require emergency surgery, contact us at 970-694-2625 as soon as possible. Our team will help determine the best next step and ensure your pet receives the care they need.