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When your pet is in distress, every second matters. But what happens when you’re stuck without a car or your local vet is miles away? This isn’t just a stressful scenario; it can mean life or death for your furry companion.
Pet ambulance services and alternative emergency transport options can be a literal lifesaver. This expanded guide covers everything you need to know so you’re not left scrambling when crisis strikes.
Can You Call An Ambulance For A Dog?
If your dog collapses or is choking, your instinct might be to dial 911. But, can you call 911 for a pet emergency?
Unfortunately, human ambulance services don’t typically assist with pet emergencies. While you can technically call, dispatchers are unlikely to send help unless a public safety risk is involved.
Your best bet is to contact your veterinarian or a local pet emergency service. Some animal control units or fire departments may offer assistance, but policies vary widely. Don’t wait until disaster strikes—research your local emergency pet resources now.
Understanding Pet Ambulance Services
Animal ambulances aren’t the stuff of fantasy—they’re real and increasingly common. These mobile units often have oxygen tanks, stretchers, heating pads, first-aid supplies, and even onboard tech for veterinary teleconsults.
They primarily assist with:
- Emergency pick-ups for critical care
- Non-emergency transfers between facilities
- Transport during natural disasters
While not as prevalent as human EMS, the pet ambulance market is growing and is expected to hit $700 million globally by 2033.
How To Find A Dog Ambulance Near You
Not every city has a dedicated pet ambulance service, so knowing how to find help fast is critical. Here’s how:
- Google Maps: Search “pet ambulance near me” or “animal emergency transport.”
- Yelp or Nextdoor: Community-driven reviews often reveal local services not listed in mainstream directories.
- Ask your vet: Many clinics partner with or can recommend local transport providers.
- Keep a list: Save names, contact numbers, and hours for nearby services.
Services may be limited in rural areas or smaller towns, so identifying backup options like pet taxis or mobile vets is essential.
Pet Ambulance Services By Location
In critical situations, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. Below is a curated list of pet ambulance and emergency transport services across various U.S. regions:
Northeast
- AmbuVet – Serving the Tri-State Area (NY, NJ, CT). Offers 24/7 emergency and non-emergency pet transport, including handler-assisted services for larger animals.
- Pets 911 Inc – Long Island, NY. Offers emergency rescue and ambulance transport for pets, with 24/7 availability.
- P.E.T.S. LLC – Massachusetts. Provides emergency transportation equipped with portable oxygen, stretchers, and monitoring equipment.
Midwest
- Pet Medical Transport – Denver, CO. Provides safe pet transportation for emergencies, hospital-to-hospital transfers, and scheduled medical visits.
South
- Houston SPCA Injured Animal Ambulance – Houston, TX. Operates a 24-hour emergency ambulance service for injured and distressed strays, staffed by emergency veterinary medical technicians.
- Vergi 24/7 – Houston, TX. A 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic that offers referral access to emergency transport and ambulance coordination.
- Vet Care Express – Manatee and Sarasota Counties, FL. Specializes in emergency and non-emergency pet transport throughout the region.
- Premium Vet Care – Plantation, FL. Provides emergency transport services for pets in Plantation and surrounding areas.
West
- Animal Ambulance of Southern California – Orange County and surrounding areas. Provides emergency transport, in-home euthanasia assistance, and aftercare support.
- Veterinary Ambulance of Southern California – Southern California. Offers full-service emergency veterinary ambulance care and critical transport services throughout Southern California.
Emergency Transport Options For Pets
Let’s say your pet is injured, but a pet ambulance service isn’t available, or you can’t afford it. You still have options you should be aware of before an emergency strikes.
Ride-Hailing & Ridesharing Services
Apps like Uber and Lyft can save the day, especially with features like Uber Pet. However, not all drivers accept animals, so always check the pet policy and message your driver beforehand.
Some areas offer dedicated pet taxis. These are companies specializing in non-emergency and emergency transport for pets. Ask your vet or search “pet taxi service near me” for local providers.
Phone A Friend
In high-stress moments, simple solutions often get overlooked. Text or call someone nearby who’s calm under pressure and can drive. It helps if they already know your pet’s behavior and medical history.
Make a mental list of your “emergency pet people” so you’re not fumbling through your contacts in a panic.
Pet Strollers & Wagons
If you have a small or medium-sized dog—or a cat—a pet stroller, wagon, or even a bike trailer can help you cover short distances fast.
You can improvise with a garden wagon and a blanket for larger pets for comfort and restraint. Some companies also make dedicated dog stretchers.
Just be cautious. If your pet is in pain or struggling to breathe, don’t delay by MacGyvering a setup—get help immediately.
Other Emergency Transport Options
Still can’t get your pet to the vet? Call your nearest 24/7 emergency veterinary clinic. Many offer advice or referrals to transport services.
Keep these numbers saved in your phone and posted on your fridge:
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
- ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
Both services are available 24/7 for emergency support, but expect a fee for each.
What To Do While Waiting For Help
If you’re waiting on a pet ambulance or a ride, you can still help your pet:
- Keep them calm: Speak gently and minimize noise.
- Immobilize if needed: Especially if there’s trauma or possible spinal injury.
- Control bleeding: Apply gentle pressure with a clean towel.
- Monitor breathing: If it’s shallow or erratic, be ready to describe it to emergency responders.
Avoid offering food, water, or medication unless directed by a professional.
Recognizing A Pet Emergency
Some symptoms are too severe to ignore. Knowing what qualifies as an emergency can save your pet’s life. Seek immediate veterinary care if your pet shows signs of:
Trauma or injury
- Severe bleeding or deep wounds
- Fractures or inability to stand or walk
- Hit by a vehicle or fallen from a height
Neurological symptoms
- Seizures or sudden collapse
- Loss of consciousness or disorientation
Breathing or heart problems
- Labored, rapid, or noisy breathing
- Persistent coughing or choking
- Blue or pale gums
Toxic exposure
- Ingesting chocolate, xylitol, grapes, rodenticides, human medications, etc.
- Contact with chemicals or known poisons
Heat-related illness
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Vomiting or diarrhea after heat exposure
- Collapsing during or after exercise
Digestive issues
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhea
- Bloating, especially in large breeds (could indicate bloat/GDV)
- Refusal to eat or drink for over 24 hours
Eye or facial injuries
- Swelling, discharge, or visible damage to eyes
- Trauma to the face or mouth
When in doubt, treat it as an emergency and consult a vet or pet poison control immediately.
Emergency Pet Checklist
Preparation is everything. Keep these items in a pet emergency kit:
- Copies of vet records
- Medications and dosage notes
- Slip lead or muzzle (for safety in pain)
- Towels or blankets (to lift or immobilize)
- Pet-safe saline, gloves, antiseptic
- List of emergency contacts (vet, poison control, local ambulance service)
Special Considerations For Large Dogs
Transporting large breeds (like Great Danes or Mastiffs) comes with extra challenges. Pet ambulances or transport services may need additional personnel or equipment, such as ramps or reinforced stretchers.
If you own a large breed:
- Call ahead to confirm transport capacity
- Consider investing in a foldable ramp or dog mobility harness as part of your home kit
Tech Tools That Can Help
In addition to hotlines, several apps and devices can aid in emergencies:
- PawSquad and FirstVet offer telehealth consultations 24/7
- Pet First Aid by the American Red Cross has quick guides on what to do in emergencies
- Activity collars like Queva or PetPace offer health monitoring and alert you if shows abnormal activity
- QR-code tags and emergency pet wallet cards can help strangers help your pet if you’re separated
Having digital tools at your fingertips can save you precious time in a crisis.
End-Of-Life Transport & Hospice Services
Not every emergency ends in recovery. If your pet is nearing the end of life, in-home euthanasia and transport services provide a gentler goodbye.
Check for local providers that offer services ranging from pain management to cremation arrangements. Many also include grief support and memorial planning.
Transport for aftercare can usually be scheduled same-day, and staff are trained in both compassion and safe handling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding pet ambulance services. Don’t see yours? Ask us in the comments.
How Much Does A Pet Ambulance Service Cost?
The cost of an ambulance for pets will vary by organization, service, and location; however, emergency transportation typically ranges from $250–$500.
Can I Use My Health Insurance For Pet Ambulances?
No. Human health insurance doesn’t cover animals. But pet insurance may, depending on your plan.
Are Pet Ambulances Staffed By Vets?
Some are, but many are operated by trained veterinary technicians or animal EMTs. They can stabilize your pet and relay critical data to your vet en route.
Do Pet Ambulances Operate 24/7?
Some do—but not all. Always check hours and availability ahead of time. You’re more likely to find round-the-clock services if you’re in a major metro area.
Do Pet Ambulances Have Size Limits?
If your dog is over 100 lbs, call ahead to confirm they can accommodate large breeds. Ask if they carry reinforced stretchers or have two-person teams.
Can I Ride Along In The Pet Ambulance?
Policies vary. Some services allow one passenger; others do not for liability reasons. Ask in advance if riding with your pet is important to you.
Pet Insurance For Accidents & Emergencies
Accident-only pet insurance policies help cover costs for injury-related vet visits. These plans are typically less expensive than accident and illness pet insurance but can save you significant money in an emergency. View our top pics for the best accident-only pet insurance plans, especially since not every company offers it.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
As with all living creatures, our pups may have unexpected health issues. Tara has experience with emergency care for her pets, which is just one of the reasons why she is dedicated to ensuring our readers have the information they need to provide the best quality of life for their furry friends. Tara is part of the Canine Journal team, which has over a decade of experience researching, testing, and writing about anything and everything dog-related. She also has 8+ years of experience in the wellness industry, with expertise in pet nutrition and supplementation.
