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50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
24/7 Emergency & Specialty Veterinary Care in Santa Cruz
Since 1961, Pacific & Santa Cruz Veterinary Specialists has been dedicated to providing exceptional veterinary care through a team of board-certified specialists and emergency veterinarians. Our hospital operates 24/7, offering critical care, internal medicine, oncology, and surgical services to companion animals in Santa Cruz and surrounding areas. Accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association, we maintain rigorous standards in diagnostics, treatment, and compassionate patient care.

Our team combines advanced training with cutting-edge technology to deliver specialized medical solutions. We collaborate closely with primary care veterinarians to ensure comprehensive treatment plans while prioritizing client education and community outreach through initiatives like the BirchBark Foundation. With a fully equipped facility and in-house laboratory, we provide rapid diagnostics and immediate interventions for pets requiring urgent or complex care.
Services
Critical Care Internal Medicine Oncology Surgery Diagnostic Lab
Details
  • Year established: 1961
Highlights and features
  • We offer 24/7 emergency services with dedicated critical care specialists
  • Our team includes board-certified specialists in multiple veterinary disciplines
  • AAHA-certified hospital maintaining the highest veterinary care standards
  • 24-hour in-house laboratory enables rapid diagnostic capabilities
  • Specialized treatment protocols for complex conditions like pet oncology
Associations and certifications
  • American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
What people say
Compassionate care Expertise 24/7 availability State-of-the-art facilities Knowledgeable staff
Services
Critical Care
Our board-certified critical care specialists provide 24/7 life-saving interventions for pets experiencing trauma, poisoning, or life-threatening conditions. With continuous monitoring capabilities and immediate access to advanced diagnostics, we stabilize patients through intravenous therapies, oxygen support, and emergency surgeries. The ICU environment maintains strict infection control protocols while enabling round-the-clock veterinary oversight for optimal recovery outcomes.
Internal Medicine
Veterinary internists manage complex non-surgical conditions affecting pets' internal systems. Using endoscopy, ultrasound, and advanced bloodwork analysis, we diagnose and treat chronic diseases like diabetes, kidney disorders, and respiratory conditions. Our specialists develop tailored treatment plans incorporating medication management, dietary interventions, and coordinated care with primary veterinarians for long-term patient wellness.
Oncology
The oncology service offers comprehensive cancer diagnosis and treatment options for pets. Through CT imaging, biopsies, and chemotherapy protocols, we develop individualized care plans addressing various malignancies. Our team provides palliative care options, pain management strategies, and experimental therapies while emphasizing quality-of-life maintenance throughout treatment processes.
Surgery
Board-certified surgeons perform complex orthopedic, soft tissue, and neurosurgical procedures using advanced monitoring equipment. Preoperative CT/MRI imaging guides precise interventions for conditions like cruciate ligament tears, spinal disorders, and tumor removals. Postoperative care includes pain management, physical therapy referrals, and follow-up monitoring to ensure proper healing and functional recovery.
Diagnostic Lab
The 24-hour laboratory conducts complete blood counts, urinalysis, and biochemical profiles for rapid diagnosis. Specialized testing includes coagulation panels, endocrine function assessments, and infectious disease screening. Immediate access to radiology, ultrasound, and CT scanning enables comprehensive evaluations within minutes, allowing prompt treatment initiation for critical patients.
Questions
What emergency veterinary services are available after hours?
Our Santa Cruz hospital provides 24/7 emergency care with dedicated criticalists and ER vets. We handle trauma, poisoning, breathing difficulties, and other life-threatening conditions every day of the year.
What specialty veterinary services do you offer?
We provide board-certified care in critical medicine, internal medicine, oncology, and advanced surgical procedures. Our specialists have completed 3+ years of additional training beyond veterinary school.
What payment options are available for pet care?
We accept cash, checks, and major credit cards. CareCredit financing is available with immediate approval. Payment is required at service time, with deposits for hospitalization or complex treatments.
How do I schedule a specialty veterinary appointment?
Call us directly to book specialist consultations during weekday business hours. Emergency cases receive immediate triage regardless of appointment status. New patients are always welcome.
What diagnostic capabilities does your veterinary lab offer?
Our in-house lab provides complete bloodwork, urinalysis, and infectious disease testing within minutes. Advanced imaging includes digital radiography, ultrasound, CT scans, and endoscopic procedures for precise diagnoses.
Do you require veterinary referrals for specialty care?
No referrals are needed. While we collaborate with primary care veterinarians, pet owners can directly access our specialty and emergency services without prior authorization or referral documentation.