Triage Exam Process: Our Guidelines for Patient Priority

We will prioritize patients based on the severity of their condition. Please note that there may be delays for Priority 2 and Priority 3 patients. 

During the triage process, we will assess your pet’s vital signs and determine their appropriate triage status. Please advise the triage nurse if the condition of your pet changes.

PRIORITY 1

May survive if life-saving measures are applied.

  • Severe Trauma
  • Poisoning
  • Collapse
  • Bloat (GDV)
  • Inability to urinate
  • Heat stroke
  • Actively Seizing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Excessive bleeding

PRIORITY 2

Likely to survive if care is given within hours.

  • Bite wound or laceration
  • Fractures
  • Allergic reactions
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Bowel obstruction
  • Birthing difficulties
  • Eye injuries

PRIORITY 3

Wait will potentially be longest due to low-no risk.

  • Skin conditions
  • Lameness
  • Sore eyes or ears
  • Abscess
  • Minor wounds
  • Chronic diseases
  • Bandage change
  • Suture removal
  • Visitation of hospital patient