At Southern Oregon Veterinary Specialty Center (SOVSC), we provide three distinct pathways for care: Emergency Care, Urgent Care, Specialty Care. Whether you are facing a sudden emergency or seeking a long-term solution for a complex condition, our team is here to guide you through every step.

Emergency Department Scheduling

24/7/365 Critical Care – No Appointment Necessary

In a crisis, every second counts. Our Emergency Department is always open to provide life-saving intervention.

• The Triage Process: Upon arrival, your pet will be assessed by a Client Services Representative and may be triaged by a technician to determine the level of urgency.

• Priority of Care: We operate on a triage system, meaning the most critical, life-threatening cases are prioritized for immediate treatment over stable patients.

• Authorization Levels: For pets in critical condition, we utilize a tiered authorization system. This allows our doctors to begin immediate stabilization and diagnostics while an initial deposit is collected.

• Understanding Wait Times: Estimated wait times for stable patients to speak with a veterinarian are posted in our lobby. Please note these are dynamic estimates that can change at any moment based on the severity of incoming and currently in hospital cases.

Urgent Care Department Scheduling

Prompt, high-quality care for non-critical, outpatient needs.

Our Urgent Care service is designed for pets requiring same-day, outpatient care for concerning but non-life-threatening issues.

• How to Visit: Appointments are not required, and walk-ins are welcome.

• Call Ahead: We highly encourage you to call ahead so we can prepare for your arrival and request medical records from your primary veterinarian.

• Hours of Operation: Urgent Care is available Thursday through Tuesday, from 8:00am to 6:00pm (Closed on Wednesdays).

Specialty Department Scheduling

Advanced expertise for complex and chronic conditions.

Our Surgery and Internal Medicine services focus on long-term solutions and intricate procedures. We welcome referrals from pet owners, primary care veterinarians, and emergency hospitals.

The Specialty Department Referral Process

• Request: Appointments can be initiated by you or your family veterinarian.

• Team Review: Once received, a dedicated Client Services Liaison reviews the records. They serve as your personal guide, discussing scheduling and “next steps.”

• Collaborative Records: We gather a complete medical history from all previous providers to ensure your specialists have a 360-degree view of your pet’s health before you even walk through the door.

Specialty Consultations & Continuity of Care

• Deposits: A deposit is required to reserve your consultation. To respect the schedules of our specialists and other patients, this is fully refundable with at least 48 hours’ notice of cancellation.

• In-House Transfers: If your pet is currently in our ER or Urgent Care, they may receive an “in-house consultation” from a specialist if their condition requires immediate expert intervention.

• Clear Communication: Following any specialty visit, a detailed medical summary is sent to your primary veterinarian within 72 hours, ensuring a “circle of care” that supports your pet’s ongoing recovery.