Emergency Vet in St. Augustine
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Emergency Pet Care from a Veterinarian Near You in Jacksonville, FL, at Pet Urgent Response and Emergency
Our Emergency Vet in St. Augustine provides immediate veterinary attention when your companion faces life-threatening emergencies that rarely happen during convenient business hours. Dr. Fernando Garcia-Pereira at Pet Urgent Response and Emergency provides specialized urgent care when your companion faces critical health situations.
We operate extended hours specifically designed around after-hours emergencies, equipped with digital x-ray technology, advanced diagnostics, and complete surgical capabilities. When your pet collapses at midnight or shows alarming symptoms during a holiday weekend, our urgent care team delivers the expert attention that could mean the difference between survival and tragedy.
Fast Action, Expert Care
In an emergency, hesitation can cost precious time. Our clinic is equipped with:
- On-site digital X-rays and ultrasound – For quick, accurate diagnosis.
- Advanced lab testing – To detect infections, organ failure, or toxic exposure.
- Emergency surgery and critical care – When every second matters.
Compassion When You Need It Most
We know how stressful a pet emergency can be. The uncertainty, the fear, the need for immediate answers, it’s a lot. Our team doesn’t just provide top-tier medical care; we guide you through the process with clear communication and compassionate support.
Ready for the Unexpected
Emergencies don’t follow business hours. A sudden collapse, a swallowed toy, or a deep wound doesn’t wait for a convenient time, and neither do we. Whether it’s late at night, a holiday, or the middle of a workday, our emergency team is here 24/7.
What We Treat
From trauma to toxins, we handle a range of critical conditions, including:
- Severe injuries – Broken bones, deep cuts, bite wounds, and accidents.
- Respiratory distress – Trouble breathing, choking, or heatstroke complications.
- Poisoning – Toxic foods, household chemicals, or unknown substances.
- Seizures and neurological emergencies – Sudden collapses, tremors, or unresponsive behavior.
- Surgical emergencies – Blockages, internal bleeding, or urgent C-sections.
We’re Here for You when you need us most! Your Pet is Our Priority!
Our hospital offers 24 hour hospitalization, with round the clock care, ensuring we’re always here when you and your pet needs us.
Get Veterinary Care and Emergency Vet Services from a Veterinarian Near You
You never expect an emergency, but when it happens, you need a place to turn. We at Pet Urgent Response and Emergency, your veterinarian in Jacksonville, FL, are that place. No appointments, no long waits, just immediate, expert care when it matters most. Call us at 904.922.7873 for veterinary care and emergency vet services from a veterinarian near you.
Emergency Room Wait Times:
CRITICAL
Immediately triage upon arrival:
- Blocked pet/unable to urinate
- Breathing difficulty/choking
- Collapse/ unconsciousness
- Distended abdomen
- Heatstroke
- Hit by car
- Labor difficulties
- Seizures (active)
- Severe allergic reactions
- Snake bite
- Shock
- Toxin ingestion
- Trauma
EMERGENCY
Wait times may vary based on the amount of CRITICAL cases:
- Bowel obstruction
- Broken bone
- Coughing
- Diarrhea
- Eye trauma
- Hind limb paralysis
- Hives/facial swelling
- Laceration
- Vomiting/retching
IMPORTANT
Wait times may be prolonged based on the CRITICAL AND EMERGENCY cases:
- Abscess
- Anorexia/not eating
- Blood in urine
- Chronic diseases
- Ear infection
- Eye irritation
- Generalized pain/restless
- Lameness
- Minor wounds
- Skin conditions
Our Comprehensive Services for Your Pet’s Well-being
PURE is your trusted partner for emergency pet care. We offer a comprehensive suite of urgent care and emergency services to address your pet’s immediate medical needs. Our team of experienced veterinarians and veterinary technicians provides swift and expert care for a variety of conditions.
- Sudden illness or injury
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Urinary tract problems
- Trauma
- Seizures
Our Mission
Since opening in May 2023, Dr. Fernando Garcia-Pereira has built our veterinary hospital around a focused approach: treat only life-threatening emergencies and urgent situations, never routine wellness services. This concentration allows our emergency vet team to maintain the expertise, equipment, and readiness necessary for handling the most critical pet emergencies. We view ourselves as essential partners to your primary veterinarian rather than competitors, our role is stabilizing your companion during acute crises and then coordinating seamlessly with your regular vet for continued care. Through transparent communication, evidence-based treatment options, and compassionate support during frightening moments, Pet Urgent Response and Emergency strives to be the emergency resource St Augustine families trust when their pets need help most.
Emergency Services
When emergencies strike, Pet Urgent Response and Emergency delivers specialized urgent care for pets in crisis. We focus solely on critical situations including broken bones, seizures, blockages, and choking incidents. We maintain state-of-the-art equipment for rapid diagnosis and immediate intervention when time matters most.
Bring your pet directly to us, no prior appointment necessary. We triage patients based on medical urgency to ensure those in critical condition receive prompt attention. Our emergency vet’s comprehensive approach combines advanced laboratory testing, surgical capabilities, and compassionate support to guide you through every step of your pet’s emergency treatment.
Surgeries
Life-threatening surgical emergencies demand immediate expertise, and Pet Urgent Response and Emergency delivers exactly that when your pet needs it most. We handle critical cases including foreign body removal, internal hemorrhaging, and emergency cesarean sections. We provide surgical intervention for conditions that simply cannot wait for regular veterinary hours.
Fast, accurate diagnosis drives our emergency surgical protocol. Our emergency vet utilizes on-site imaging and laboratory capabilities to assess the situation, then moves swiftly into surgical action when required. Throughout your pet’s crisis, we provide transparent updates and compassionate guidance, helping you navigate these frightening moments with confidence in our care.
Hospitalization
Critical conditions often require more than a quick exam, they demand dedicated, extended care to stabilize and heal your pet. At Pet Urgent Response and Emergency, our hospitalization services provide the intensive treatment necessary for severe emergencies, surgical recoveries, and life-threatening conditions. We deliver 24/7 monitoring, therapeutic medications, and continuous medical support tailored to your pet’s specific needs.
When hospitalization becomes essential, our emergency vet assesses your pet’s condition and creates a comprehensive treatment plan. We maintain constant supervision with our advanced diagnostic capabilities, ensuring immediate intervention if your pet’s status changes. Throughout their stay, we administer fluids, medications, and post-surgical care while keeping you informed every step of the way.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging gives us a clear window into what’s happening inside your pet during critical moments. We use this non-invasive technology to examine organs, detect fluid buildup, and identify abnormalities that could be causing your pet’s distress. Having this diagnostic tool on-site means faster answers and quicker relief for your beloved companion.
Our emergency vet at Pet Urgent Response and Emergency performs ultrasound examinations right here in our facility, eliminating delays from outside referrals. We provide round-the-clock access to this vital imaging service, ensuring diagnostic care whenever crisis strikes. We combine advanced equipment with skilled interpretation to guide urgent medical decisions effectively.
Advanced Diagnostics
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective emergency treatment. We utilize digital radiography, ultrasound imaging, and in-house laboratory analysis to quickly determine the source of your pet’s distress. From detecting foreign objects and internal injuries to identifying infections and metabolic issues, our tools deliver the answers we need to act swiftly.
When you bring your pet to our emergency vet, our team immediately assesses their condition using our advanced diagnostic capabilities. We perform targeted tests based on your pet’s symptoms, whether they’re experiencing trauma, respiratory distress, or sudden illness. This focused approach at Pet Urgent Response and Emergency ensures we provide life-saving interventions without unnecessary delays.
Cardiovascular Emergency
Cardiac crises present suddenly with alarming symptoms: pets collapsing mid-activity, gasping for air, or displaying pale gums indicating poor circulation. Our St. Augustine emergency vet team recognizes that conditions like acute heart failure and pericardial effusion require immediate diagnostic assessment to determine the underlying cause. Pet Urgent Response and Emergency prioritizes cardiovascular cases because heart problems escalate quickly, leaving narrow windows for effective intervention.
Our emergency protocol includes thorough physical examination followed by diagnostic imaging with X-rays and ultrasound to visualize heart structure and function. Treatment strategies vary based on diagnosis but may include oxygen therapy, emergency medications to stabilize heart rhythm, fluid management, or surgical drainage procedures. We provide clear communication throughout the process, explaining your pet’s condition and treatment plan during this critical situation.
Why Choose Us
What to Expect During Your Pet’s Stay at PURE
Upon arrival at PURE, your pet will receive immediate attention from our skilled veterinarians. Our commitment to excellence begins with a thorough evaluation to quickly identify the underlying cause of your pet’s distress.
At PURE, we understand that emergencies don’t happen on weekdays only. That’s why we’re here to serve as your trusted weekend vet in Jacksonville, FL. We’re committed to providing compassionate and attentive care for your pet’s urgent needs. Our dedicated team is here to support both you and your furry friend during these challenging times.
Looking for an Urgent or Emergency Veterinary Hospital in Jacksonville?
At PURE, our commitment to your pet’s well-being is unwavering. We prioritize their care above all else, ensuring that they receive the attention they deserve, especially in critical moments. Here’s why entrusting us with your pet’s health is the best decision you can make:
Unparalleled Availability
Emergencies don’t adhere to a schedule, which is why our doors are always open. Whether it’s a holiday, weekend, or the dead of night, our dedicated team stands ready to assist your pet whenever they need it most.
Expertise You Can Rely On
Our staff comprises seasoned professionals who have dedicated their careers to veterinary care. With a wealth of experience and ongoing training, they’re equipped to handle any emergency with precision and skill, providing your pet with the highest standard of care.
Compassion at the Core
We recognize the profound bond between pets and their owners, and we approach every case with empathy and understanding. From the moment your pet arrives, they’ll be treated with gentleness, respect, and the compassion they deserve.
Cutting-Edge Facilities
Our facilities boast state-of-the-art equipment and technology designed to diagnose and treat your pet effectively. From advanced diagnostic tools to innovative treatment options, we spare no expense in ensuring that your pet receives the best possible care.
At PURE, your pet isn’t just another patient – they’re a cherished member of your family, and we treat them as such. Trust us to be there for your pet in their time of need, providing comfort, expertise, and unwavering support every step of the way.
Our Emergency Vet in St. Augustine is Ready for Your Pet’s Crisis
Pet Urgent Response and Emergency provides access to an Emergency Vet in St. Augustine for cases requiring immediate surgical intervention that can’t wait for morning appointments. Dr. Fernando Garcia-Pereira’s board certification in anesthesia means even unstable, crashing pets can safely undergo life-saving operations. Our team has capabilities to diagnose poisoning, organ failure, and metabolic emergencies within minutes.
Call 904.922.7873 to verify your pet’s condition requires our specialized surgical capabilities at 8117 Point Meadows Dr #107, ensuring the drive serves a critical purpose. Stay informed through our Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok pages where we detail which symptoms pet owners dismiss until emergencies become critical.
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Meet the Doctor
Surgery on critically ill pets requires expertise most emergency veterinarians don’t possess. Dr. Fernando Garcia-Pereira earned board certification from the American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia after completing two clinical internships, anesthesia residency, and a Master of Sciences in Veterinary Clinical Sciences. He spent fourteen years at Michigan State University and the University of Florida researching cardiorespiratory physiology while training future veterinarians.
This background allows him to safely anesthetize unstable patients requiring immediate surgical intervention. He creates patient-specific anesthesia plans rather than using standardized protocols and implements multimodal pain control techniques. St. Augustine pet owners benefit from specialized anesthesia expertise that transforms high-risk emergency surgeries into procedures with significantly better outcomes.
Dr. Fernando Garcia-Pereira DVM, MS, DACVAA
Veterinarian
Dr. Lauren Spendley
Associate Veterinarian
Mrs. Stacy Hicks
Practice Manager
FAQs
Will you communicate with my regular veterinarian?
Yes, we automatically send complete medical records to your regular veterinarian after treating your pet. This includes all diagnostic images, lab results, detailed treatment information, medications administered, and our specific recommendations for follow-up care. Our emergency vet views your primary vet as a partner in your pet’s health and makes sure they have everything needed for seamless ongoing care. Most veterinarians specifically recommend us to their clients for after-hours emergencies because they trust our clinical skills and value our thorough communication. This collaborative approach ensures your pet receives coordinated care from emergency through complete recovery.
Do you provide follow-up care after treatment?
Our emergency vet’s focus is on emergency and urgent care rather than routine follow-up visits. After we stabilize your pet and address the immediate emergency, we provide detailed discharge instructions and send comprehensive medical records to your regular veterinarian for ongoing care and follow-up. Your primary vet knows your pet’s medical history and is best positioned to provide continued care once the emergency has passed. However, many of our clients have Dr. Garcia-Pereira’s cell phone number for questions during the recovery period, and we’re always available by phone if concerns arise before you can see your regular vet.
Can you treat heatstroke emergencies?
Absolutely, heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency we treat regularly, especially during Florida’s hot months. When you bring your pet with suspected heatstroke, we immediately begin aggressive cooling protocols using multiple methods simultaneously. Our emergency vet administered cool IV fluids to lower core temperature from the inside while providing external cooling.
Our emergency vet then monitors temperature continuously to prevent dangerous overcooling. Beyond cooling, we provide comprehensive supportive care including IV fluid therapy to combat dehydration and shock, oxygen supplementation for respiratory support, and medications to protect organs already damaged by extreme heat. Our advanced diagnostics help us assess how the heatstroke has affected kidneys, liver, heart, and other vital organs so we can provide targeted treatment.
What do I do if my pet is choking?
If your pet is choking and you’re in St Augustine, call us immediately at 904.922.7873 while you get in the car, we’ll guide you and be ready when you arrive. If your pet can’t breathe at all, you can try to carefully look in their mouth for a visible obstruction and remove it if possible, but be extremely careful as panicked pets may bite. Don’t blindly reach down their throat as this can push objects deeper. For dogs, you can try the Heimlich maneuver by placing your fist behind the last rib and giving quick upward thrusts. Then get to us immediately, choking is a true emergency requiring professional intervention. Our emergency vet can quickly assess the airway, provide oxygen support, and safely remove obstructions under sedation if necessary.
How do you handle bite wounds?
Bite wounds whether from dog fights, cat attacks, or wildlife encounters require careful emergency treatment because they’re often more serious than they appear. When your pet arrives with bite wounds, we first assess for shock, blood loss, and breathing problems that need immediate attention. Our emergency vet carefully examined all wounds because puncture wounds can be small on the surface but cause significant damage underneath, including torn muscles, broken bones, or penetrating injuries to the chest or abdomen. We use our diagnostic imaging to check for internal damage, broken bones, or foreign material in the wounds. Treatment typically includes thorough wound cleaning, pain management, antibiotics to prevent infection, and sometimes surgical repair for severe wounds. Some bite wounds require drain placement or hospitalization for continued care and monitoring.
