When Should I Take My Pet to the Hospital?
Every pet parent faces this worry at some point: Is this a small issue or time for a vet visit? At River Trail Animal Hospital, we help families in Tulsa and Bixby make smart choices when illness or injury strikes.

Key Warning Signs
If you spot any of these red flags, a fast trip to a pet hospital in Tulsa or pet hospital in Bixby is wise:
- Trouble breathing or nonstop coughing
- Swollen belly or hard abdomen
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than a day
- Refusing food or water for 24 hours
- Bleeding that will not stop
- Sudden lameness or not bearing weight on a leg
- Toxin intake such as chocolate, grapes, or household cleaners
- Seizures or fainting spells
- High fever (panting, warm ears, dull mood)
Daytime vs. After‑Hours Care
During clinic hours, call our team first. We will guide you on the next steps and prep a room so there is no wait. After hours, head straight to the nearest 24‑hour facility. Quick action can save your pet’s life and cut down on recovery time.
Choosing the Right Hospital
Look for a clinic with:
- Skilled veterinarians who offer both urgent and routine care
- Modern tools like digital X‑rays and in‑house lab tests
- Kind staff who keep you in the loop
- Clear pricing before any work starts
River Trail Animal Hospital meets all of these marks for Tulsa and Bixby families. We treat dogs and cats as if they were our own.
Plan Ahead
Keep our phone number in your contacts and know the route to our clinics in Tulsa or Bixby. Having a first‑aid kit and safe carrier ready will make a rush visit smoother.
Still asking, when should you take your pet to the hospital? When in doubt, call us or request an appointment. We are here to help your best friend feel better fast.