Southeastern PA - Emergency Vet Connundrum

[Airyn]

Does anyone have any recommendations on where to go for an off-hours emergency? I don't have an emergency, but I ran into an issue finding a vet over the weekend, so I figured I'd better do some more research.

The vet at the University of Pennsylvania told me that they never have an exotic vet on staff during nights or weekends. He said they could call for a consult if necessary, but that the exotic vets rarely if ever come in for an emergency. That sent up red flags, as every animal hospital in the area has a pre-recorded message on their answering machines referring you to the University of Penn.

I called VCA Old Marple Animal Hospital this morning and they told me that they only have exotic vets on staff during business hours as well.

I had a great experience at Bucks County Veterinary Emergency Trauma Services, but she's not an exotic vet, so I don't know how comfortable I would be going there if surgery on any level were a hypothetical outcome.

My next call was going to be Quakertown, but I'm hesitant to trust them, as I'm fairly certain they overdosed my first chinchilla on Baytril 15 years ago.

Any suggestions?

 

[SamiJami]

How far south eastern are you? If you're near DE, I can tell you not to worry about the Dover or Wilmington ER vets. They don't do exotics. If you're closer to MD, Falls Road Animal Hospital in Baltimore is fantastic! I had to drive there when Altair broke his leg in January. It's a 2.5 hour drive for me, but was worth it. They really bent over backwards to make me feel comfortable. They have an exotic vet on 24/7 and even a chinchilla specialist during the days

You can message chincherub on here. She's a breeder in south eastern PA. Good luck!! And great job thinking ahead!

 

[Airyn]

Thanks Sami! Only problem is that I'm near Philly and Baltimore's a 3 hour drive. If it were a true emergency, I wouldn't want to attempt that long of a ride unless absolutely necessary. I really appreciate the info though! I'll email chincherub and see if she has any recommendations.

 

[amignatowicz]

i know this is an old post, however i thought you might still need an answer. i take my chins to windcrest animal hospital, they're open 24 hours and always have an exotic vet in.