Emergencies do not follow a schedule. Knowing where to go before one happens is the most important preparation an owner can make. OC Pets is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM and equipped to handle a wide range of urgent and life-threatening conditions. If your pet is in distress outside these hours, call 044 366 388 and we will direct you to the most appropriate 24-hour facility in Dubai.
Recognising a True Emergency
Some situations require immediate veterinary attention without waiting to see if things improve. Go directly to a vet if your pet is struggling to breathe or has blue, white or pale gums; has been hit by a vehicle or had a serious fall; is having a seizure lasting more than two minutes; is straining to urinate without producing any urine (especially male cats); has a distended, hard abdomen; or is unresponsive, collapsing or unable to stand.
Other emergencies include suspected swallowing of a known toxin or large foreign object, heavy bleeding not controlled by firm pressure, snake bite or venomous sting, and suspected heatstroke (which is a genuine risk in Dubai summers). When in doubt, call us and describe what you see. We will tell you how urgently to come in.
What Happens When You Arrive
Emergency cases are assessed immediately on arrival. A triage assessment takes place at the reception desk. Life-threatening cases are taken directly to the treatment area without completing paperwork. Our team stabilises patients first, asks questions second.
We will place an IV catheter, draw blood if indicated, begin oxygen therapy if needed and address pain as an immediate priority. We communicate findings to you as quickly as we are able.
Emergency Stabilisation and Treatment
Stabilisation protocols are implemented based on presenting signs. This includes intravenous fluid therapy for shock and dehydration, oxygen supplementation, pain management, wound management, fracture stabilisation, poison management and seizure control.
We perform emergency diagnostics including blood tests, X-rays and ultrasound in-house so that decisions are based on actual findings rather than clinical suspicion alone. This significantly improves the accuracy and speed of treatment decisions.
Monitoring and Continued Care
Stabilised emergency patients who require continued monitoring are hospitalised in our inpatient ward with nursing care throughout the day. Pain management continues on a scheduled basis, not just on request.
For cases requiring intensive overnight monitoring, we will advise on transfer to a 24-hour facility where necessary and communicate directly with the receiving team to ensure continuity of care. Your pet's wellbeing does not stop at our closing time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are your emergency hours?
We are open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. For emergencies outside these hours, call 044 366 388 or message on WhatsApp and we will direct you to the most appropriate 24-hour facility in Dubai.
What are the signs that my dog needs emergency care right now?
The clearest signs: any breathing difficulty, pale or blue gums, collapse or inability to stand, active uncontrolled bleeding, suspected poisoning, straining to urinate in a male cat, seizures, trauma from a vehicle, severe vomiting with a bloated abdomen in a large dog. If unsure, call and describe what you see.
Should I call ahead before coming in an emergency?
Yes, if possible. Calling ahead allows us to prepare the treatment area. However, do not delay arrival to make a call if your pet needs to come in immediately. Your pet comes first.
Can you treat cats in emergencies?
Yes. We treat both dogs and cats as well as small mammals. Cats deteriorate very rapidly in emergencies, especially those with urinary blockages or respiratory distress. Time matters.
What if my pet needs care beyond what you offer?
We will stabilise your pet, communicate findings clearly and refer to the appropriate specialist or 24-hour facility with a full written handover. We do not retain unstable patients beyond our capability.
Ready to Book?
Our team is available 7 days a week, 10 AM to 10 PM. Book online or call us directly for same-day availability.