Critical Care
When critical care is needed, our emergency service is available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. We have an emergency veterinarian and technical support staff on-site at all times and we are the only Certified Critical Care Veterinary Hospital in Indiana. If you suspect your pet of having an emergency, please call us at (260) 426-1062 or bring your pet directly to our hospital.
Critical care at NIVES features state-of-the-art equipment for fast and reliable diagnostic testing including in-house blood work, digital radiography, CT scan and ultrasound imaging. Advanced treatments, including blood and plasma transfusions, also allow the emergency doctors at our hospital to provide optimal care for your pet.
On-Site Procedures and Capabilities
- ICU monitoring 24/7
- Isolation Room
- Oxygen Therapy
- Intravenous fluid therapy
- Emergency Surgery
- Fully Stocked Pharmacy
- Blood Bank/Transfusions
- Blood pressure monitoring
- ECG monitoring
- Digital Radiography with Board Certified Radiologist Consultations
- Emergency Ultrasound
- Computed Tomography (CT Scanner)
- Full, in-house Laboratory
- Ethylene Glycol (Antifreeze) Testing
- Infectious disease testing (Parvovirus, Heartworm disease, etc)
What to Expect During an Emergency Visit
It is not necessary to call in advance for your visit, however our staff may be able to provide you with information to make the trip to our facility more comfortable for your pet if you let us know you are coming.
Pets are examined on a first come, first served basis depending on the severity of the condition or injury. We appreciate your patience and understanding if another pet requires immediate attention even though you may have arrived first. We know your time is valuable and will do everything possible to address your situation in a timely fashion.
Initial Triage
Upon arrival, your pet will be triaged by a trained veterinary technician or assistant. If any part of the initial triage process suggests a serious problem, we may ask permission to take your pet to our treatment area for a more thorough assessment of vital signs and examination by the doctor. You will be asked to stay with the receptionist to provide information for your pet’s medical record. Do not be alarmed, a staff member or doctor will return shortly to inform you of your pet’s status.
Hospitalization
In some situations your pet is treated and can go home the very same day; however, there are occasions when hospitalized care is recommended. If your pet needs to stay with us we will be happy to show you the accommodations once your pet gets settled. During their stay we provide comfortable bedding along with food and water as medically appropriate. In the morning we can continue care at NIVES or you can transfer your pet to your primary veterinarian (if available and medically appropriate).
Estimates and Payment
Our doctors will provide detailed treatment plans and discuss available options during the consultation. We take great care to communicate openly about potential treatments and related costs. We will also keep you up-to-date on the status of your bill and we will do our best to work within the budget you have established for your pet’s care. Any balance still due when care is complete is payable upon discharge.
Due to the unexpected nature of emergencies and the potential costs for advanced care, financial assistance may be necessary. Many clients are able to discuss treatment options with family members and friends and obtain financial help. Payments can be made by cash, check, debit and credit card. We also offer CareCredit® an alternative financing option. You can apply for CareCredit® in hospital or online at carecredit.com.
Keeping Your Primary Veterinarian Informed
Your pet’s family doctor is considered an important part of the team. A copy of the record and test results are faxed to your pet’s primary veterinarian after the visit to help provide continuity of care.
