Is your pet experiencing an emergency?

Our Accident and Emergency department in North Melbourne is open 365 days a year, including public holidays.

No booking is required for emergencies, but please try to ring ahead on 03 9328 3021 to let us know you are on your way, or if you are not sure whether it is an emergency.

Location: 24 Villiers Street, North Melbourne, VIC, 3051
Hours: 8:30am – 7:00pm
Parking: Available on site.

How to prepare for an emergency visit with your pet

  • Secure your cat, rabbit, guinea pig, ferret or birds in a safe carrier
  • For dogs, please use a collar and lead or harness
  • Bring any relevant medical history or information about the incident (e.g., food wrappers or recent illnesses).
  • Call ahead, if possible, to let our team prepare for your arrival.

Pet emergency symptoms to watch for

If your pet shows any of the below symptoms, please bring them to our hospital in North Melbourne immediately. Every minute counts.

  • Major injuries (e.g., fractures, open wounds)
  • Difficulty breathing or choking
  • Uncontrolled bleeding
  • Loss of consciousness or extreme lethargy
  • Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea
  • Difficulty urinating or defecating
  • Swollen or distended abdomen
  • Unexpected seizures or paralysis

For information about wildlife emergencies, click here.

First Aid

At some point almost every pet carer will be faced with their pet being injured. Refer to our First Aid icons that contain helpful and potentially life-saving information for quick reference in the event of an emergency or potential health risk for your pet.

*Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet.

After hours vet care

CARE Veterinary Hospital
5 Hood Street, Collingwood VIC 3066
03 9417 6417

Veterinary Referral Hospital
36 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong VIC 3175
1300 385 874

Animal Referral Hospital
72 Hargrave Avenue, Essendon Fields VIC 3040
03 9379 0700

Animal Emergency Centre (Frankston)
39 McMahons Road, Frankston VIC 3199
03 9770 5555

Animal Emergency Centre (Moorabbin)
248 Wickham Road, Highett VIC 3190
03 9532 5261

Animal Emergency Centre (Mount Waverley)
37 Blackburn Road, Mount Waverley VIC 3149
03 9803 8122

Advanced Vetcare
26 Robertson Street, Kensington VIC 3031
03 9092 0400

Pet Emergency & Specialist Centre
1103 Dandenong Road, Malvern East VIC 3145
03 9569 3677