Pet Owner Information

Hospital Policies

Wait Times

It is our policy to assess and then assist any patient first that needs STAT medical attention. Our average wait time for emergencies is 2 to 4 hours, but it often runs longer depending on our caseload.

How We Prioritize Patients

Critical patients take priority.

• Uncontrolled bleeding, open fractures, or automobile accidents
• Breathing problems, choking, or respiratory distress
• Seizures or paralysis
• Shock
• Heatstroke
• Toxin ingestion
• Heatstroke

Triage

A veterinary emergency hospital is just like a human emergency department—the caseload is unpredictable. At emergency medical facilities, the most seriously wounded or most ill patients are treated first. This is known as "triage".

Our Pet Care Philosophy

For those times when unique medical care is required, we act as an extension of your primary care veterinarian. We proudly serve pet owners and veterinarians in Tucson and beyond by providing advanced level services and procedures not generally available in family practice. 

We will work closely with your family veterinarian and our network of specialists to provide the best treatment possible for your pet. 

Payment Information

At Veterinary Specialty Center of Tucson, we'll help you navigate our options for payment and financing so you can focus on getting your pet the care they need.

• What types of payment options are available?

  Payment is expected at the time services are provided or when your pet is discharged. We accept payment via cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. 

  We also accept CareCredit and ScratchPay payment plan options.

• Are there payment or financing plans available for my pet’s care?

  We are happy to offer CareCredit and ScratchPay as financing options. Both offer an easy application process that will bring you results in minutes.

• Will I be provided with an estimate of costs?

  Before treating your pet, we will provide a good-faith estimate of the cost of our services. However, unforeseen circumstances may arise that influence the amount of your final bill. 

  We always discuss our written estimate with each client before they leave our facility, and require a deposit based on our estimate before providing any further treatment. 

• What are the fees associated with a specialty appointment?

  You are financially responsible for the initial exam fee and any diagnostics or treatment that you provide consent to for your pet’s treatment. This payment will be due at the time services are rendered.

  For further hospitalization, diagnostics, or surgery, we require a deposit upfront with payment in full due when your pet is discharged.

• What are the fees associated with an emergency visit?

  For all emergency exams, a deposit payment is required. Once the staff and doctors examine your pet, we will provide an estimate for treatment so a treatment plan can be determined. 

  For further hospitalization, diagnostics or surgery, we require an upfront deposit, with payment in full due when your pet is discharged.