At MASH, we use a color-coded triage system to prioritize pets based on urgency. This helps us quickly identify those needing immediate care. We may ask about your pet’s symptoms to assess urgency. Please understand that less urgent cases may experience.
Priority 1: Immediate
Immediate stabilization is required for best chance of survival.
- Collapse
- Blood in urine or straining of a male dog/cat
- Major bleeding
- Breathing problems
- Non-responsive/limp
- Actively seizing
- Severe Trauma
- Dropped
- Kicked
- Crushed
- Run Over
- Bloated abdomen
- Snakebite
- Unproductive retching
- Fluid in the lungs/around the heart
Priority 2: Emergency
Patient is currently stable but serious nature requires further evaluation.
- Trouble during active labor
- Cluster seizures (three or more seizures in a 24-hour period)
- Diarrhea paired with appetite loss and vomiting
- Toxin ingestion
- Diabetic not doing well/lethargic
- Open fracture (can see the bone)
- Euthanasia
- Acutely non-ambulatory
Priority 3: Urgent
Urgent but does not require immediate attention. Wait times may be extended.
- Trouble during active labor
- Vomiting (less than two times in a 24-hour period)
- Straining to defecate
- Blood in urine or straining of a female dog/cat
- Small laceration/wound
- Altered mentation
- Non-productive cough with no breathing pattern changes
Priority 4: Non-Urgent
Injury or illness is not life-threatening. May be accommodated by being scheduled.
- Itching
- Chronic lameness
- Dermatologic issues
- A single seizure with full recovery
- Hair loss
- Chronic weight loss