Pet Emergency in Bedford? What to Do During Our Hours and After Hours

Nobody plans for a pet emergency. When something goes wrong, the last thing you want to do is search for phone numbers while your dog or cat is in distress.

This guide explains exactly what to do if your pet needs urgent care, whether it happens during our business hours, late at night, on a weekend or on a holiday. We suggest reading it now and saving the numbers in your phone, so you are ready if the day ever comes.

Step one: call ahead if you can

Whether you are coming to us or heading to an emergency hospital, a quick phone call on the way is always helpful. It lets the team know you are coming so they can prepare for your arrival.

If it happens during our business hours

In case of an emergency during our regular business hours, bring your pet to Vetcetera Animal Hospital right away. We are located at 1144 Bedford Highway in Bedford.

We always recommend booking appointments for regular care, and scheduled appointments are given priority. However, walk-ins are accepted for emergencies.

We are open Monday to Friday, with extended hours until 7:00 pm on Mondays and Thursdays. We are closed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. You can always check our current hours on our contact page.

If it happens after hours, on a weekend or on a holiday

For after hours emergencies, please contact one of these emergency hospitals in the Halifax area:

• Metro Animal Emergency Clinic, 201 Brownlow Avenue, Dartmouth. Open 24 hours. Phone: 902-468-0674
• Coastal Care Veterinary Emergency & Referral Hospital, 168 Hobsons Lake Drive, Halifax, NS B3S 0G4. Phone: (902) 703-2323
• Maritime Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Centre, 39 MicMac Drive, Dartmouth, NS B3A 4Y8. Phone: 902-932-0838

Not sure if it is an emergency?

You know your pet better than anyone. If your pet seems seriously unwell, is in obvious pain, has been injured or something just does not feel right, trust your instincts and call. It is always better to have your pet checked than to wait and wonder.

What to bring with you

If you have a moment before you leave, grab any medications your pet is taking, including supplements, and any previous veterinary records you have. This information helps the veterinary team understand your pet's health history quickly.

After the emergency: follow-up care with us

If your pet was seen at an emergency hospital, we are here for the next steps. Our commitment to your pet extends beyond the first visit. We provide ongoing monitoring and follow-up care, and we adjust treatment plans as your pet recovers.

Our hospital has an in-house laboratory, digital x-rays and ultrasound, so we can often check on your pet's progress without sending you elsewhere. You can learn more in our guide to pet diagnostics in Bedford. If your pet needs care beyond our general practice, we can refer you to a board-certified veterinary specialist and work closely with them.

Managing unexpected costs

Emergencies are stressful enough without worrying about the bill. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, debit and cash, and payment is due at the time of service.

To give you more flexibility, we also offer financing through Humm. Eligible clients can apply online in a few minutes and receive a credit decision in as little as 7 minutes. Humm offers financing for veterinary care of up to $30,000, including our 6 and 12 month zero-interest payment plans on eligible purchases. Read more about paying for vet care with Humm.

Frequently asked questions

Do you accept walk-in emergencies?

Yes. During our regular business hours, walk-ins are accepted for emergencies. Please call ahead if you can so we can prepare for your arrival.

Are you open on weekends?

No. Vetcetera Animal Hospital is closed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. During those times, please contact one of the emergency hospitals listed above.

Which emergency vet near Bedford is open 24 hours?

Metro Animal Emergency Clinic at 201 Brownlow Avenue in Dartmouth is open 24 hours. You can reach them at 902-468-0674.

Can my pet follow up with Vetcetera after an emergency visit?

Yes. We provide ongoing monitoring and follow-up care, and we can adjust your pet's treatment plan as they recover.

I do not have a regular vet. Can I become a client?

Yes, we are accepting new patients. Having a regular vet before an emergency happens means your pet's records are already on file. Here is how to become a client.

Save our number today

For urgent care during business hours, call Vetcetera Animal Hospital at (902) 832-4818 or come straight to 1144 Bedford Highway, Bedford, Nova Scotia. For non-urgent questions, email info@vetcetera.ca or request an appointment online.