Need a vet now?
Find the practices nearest you that are open now or 24 hours, and the nearest emergency clinics, veterinary hospitals and out-of-hours services. Call before you set off: they'll tell you what to do on the way and get ready for you.
Registered with a vet? Call them first: out of hours, their answerphone gives the number of the service that covers them.
Is it an emergency?
Go now, and call on the way, if your pet:
- Is struggling to breathe, or their gums look pale, grey or blue
- Has collapsed, can’t stand or is suddenly very weak
- Is bleeding heavily or has a deep wound
- Has eaten chocolate, grapes or raisins, xylitol (in sugar-free gum), antifreeze or rat poison, or a cat has touched lilies
- Is straining but can’t pass urine, especially a male cat
- Has a swollen, tight belly and keeps trying to be sick
- Has a fit lasting over 5 minutes, or several in a row
- Has been hit by a car, even if they seem fine
Not sure? Call anyway. Out-of-hours vets would rather hear from you. If you think your pet has been poisoned, take the packet or a photo of the label, and don't make them sick unless a vet tells you to.
What it costs at night
typical night or weekend consultation in the UK, before treatment
Most charge £86 to £314, from 446 practices' published prices.
Treatment, tests and overnight stays cost extra, so ask for an estimate. From September 2027 you're entitled to one in writing when treatment is likely to cost £500 or more.
Worried about paying?
- Ask whether you can pay in instalments. Many practices will discuss it.
- PDSA pet hospitals treat pets free or at low cost if you get certain benefits.
- If you're insured, ask whether your insurer pays the vet directly.