When your pet is facing a life-threatening emergency, every minute counts. And in some cases, emergency treatment alone isn’t enough – ongoing intensive care may be the key to survival and recovery. That’s where AESC’s Critical Care service comes in. Led by board-certified veterinary criticalists, our team specializes in caring for the sickest pets with advanced tools, 24/7 monitoring, and compassion.

What is Veterinary Critical Care?

Veterinary Critical Care is the highest level of medical support available for pets in crisis. While emergency vets treat urgent problems, veterinary criticalists manage ongoing, life-threatening conditions that require:

• 24/7 monitoring and nursing care

• Oxygen therapy and respiratory support

• Blood transfusions

• Emergency surgery

• ICU-level hospitalization

Our specialists have years of advanced training beyond veterinary school, making them experts in complex stabilization and case management.

What to Expect at Our 24-Hour Veterinary ICU

Immediate Assessment: When you arrive at AESC, a veterinary technician will promptly assess your pet’s condition. They will check for signs of trauma or distress, evaluate vital signs, and talk with you about your pet’s medical history.

Daily updates and communication: If your pet is hospitalized, our veterinarians will update you daily on your pet’s progress and further treatment recommendations. You’re also welcome to call anytime for general updates from our team.

Advanced Technology: AESC is equipped with cutting-edge tools for critical care, including:

• In-house lab testing

• Oxygen support, including high-flow nasal oxygen therapy

• Ultrasound and CT scans performed by board-certified radiologists

• Blood and plasma transfusions

• Continuous EKG monitoring

Support: Facing a medical crisis with your pet is overwhelming. Our team is here not only to treat your pet but to support you in making informed, compassionate decisions about their care.

Team-Based, Specialist-Driven Care

At AESC Parker, your pet’s care is managed by a collaborative team, including board-certified specialists in:

• Anesthesiology

• Cardiology

• Internal medicine

• Surgery

• Neurology

• Oncology

This collaborative approach ensures your pet receives the best possible care; seamless communication between specialists ensures every aspect of your pet’s care is covered, especially when every second counts.

When Does a Pet Need Critical Care?

Common conditions that may require ICU care include:

• Hit by car or major trauma

• Poisoning or toxin exposure

• Respiratory distress and pneumonia

• Snake bites or insect envenomation

• Uncontrolled seizures

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)

• Parvovirus

• Sepsis

• Severe vomiting/diarrhea

• Heart failure

• Post-operative intensive care

If your pet's condition is unstable or deteriorating quickly, critical care may be essential to support their recovery.

FAQ: Veterinary Critical Care at AESC Parker

Do I Need an Appointment?

• No. AESC is a 24/7 veterinary facility and always available for walk-in emergencies. You are always welcome to contact us to let us know when you’ll be arriving.

How long will my pet stay in the ICU?

• It depends on the nature and severity of their condition. Some pets only need intensive care for 24 hours, while others may stay several days for stabilization and treatment. We’ll update you regularly and discuss your pet’s progress and prognosis every step of the way.

How much does veterinary critical care cost?

• Costs vary depending on the treatment required, length of stay, and complexity of care. After the initial examination, we’ll provide a detailed estimate for any recommended services. If your pet is admitted, an initial deposit will be required, with the balance due at discharge. We offer third-party financing options to help make emergency and critical care more accessible.

Can I visit my pet?

• Absolutely. We’ll work with you to coordinate a visit that supports both your pet’s recovery and your peace of mind.

Bottom Line

24/7 emergency veterinary care ranges from outpatient urgent care to intensive hospitalization involving advanced equipment and a team of specialists. At AESC in Parker, Colorado, we're fully equipped to handle this wide spectrum of medical needs should your pet ever require emergency care. Be sure to save our contact information should you ever need us - we're here for you and your pet, 24/7.