As we continue to operate amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we want to update you on our safety procedures, including how we’re handling emergencies and scheduling specialty appointments.
Above all, we want to assure you that we are here for you and your pets. Our emergency department remains open 24/7 – no appointment is ever needed.
It is our goal to continue to see patients as expeditiously as possible, and we continue to offer curbside service for emergencies and appointments to provide necessary care to all patients while maintaining your safety and that of our team members. We request that you strictly adhere to our COVID-19 protocols to limit the risk to all involved.
How We Handle Emergencies
Emergency pet patients will be triaged promptly by medical team members and brought into the hospital for assessment. After examination, all communication with our veterinarians and team members will take place via phone. Please be sure to have your phone with you and that it is charged or bring an external charger.
As always, cases will be seen in order of severity, with most critical being prioritized. Here are examples of cases that require urgent lifesaving treatment:
- Actively seizing
- Allergic reactions
- Bloat (GVD)
- Collapse
- Difficulty breathing
- Excessive bleeding
- Heat stroke
- Open fracture
- Paralysis
- Poisoning
- Road traffic accidents
- Snake bite
- Trauma
- Urinary tract problems (cats)
Once critical cases are handled, we will see non-life-threatening emergency cases as soon as possible, including those experiencing:
- Abscesses
- Active vomiting
- Birthing difficulties
- Bowel obstruction
- Chronic diseases
- Closed fractures
- Diarrhea
- Lameness
- Minor wounds
- Skin conditions
- Urinary tract problems
Review our triage priority list here.
As always, we highly recommend that you are prepared for any type of pet emergency, and have a pet first-aid kit available with you at home and in the car.
Your Patience Is Appreciated
Despite our best efforts, you may experience extended wait times. Please know that our staff is tirelessly working as quickly and carefully as possible while providing personalized care for every patient. We appreciate your cooperation, kindness, and patience as we continue to operate during these challenging times.
For the latest info on the precautions you can take to stay safe and updates on the developing situation, please visit websites for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Virginia Department of Health.
If you have any questions, we’re just a phone call away at (757) 935-9111—at any time, day or night.
About Us
The COVE’s veterinarians and staff wholeheartedly embrace the core values of community, collaboration, commitment, compassion, and integrity. This focus ensures that pets, the people who love them, and their primary care veterinarians have as positive and affirming a healthcare experience as possible, regardless of the circumstances that bring us all together.