Portland Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Care

Portland Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Care We are a Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Hospital, with 18 veterinary specialists on staff. Emergency Department is open 24/7/365. Checks are not accepted.
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We offer advanced veterinary critical & specialty care by a talented, dedicated, and trusted team when you need us most. SAFETY PROTOCOL REGARDING COVID-19 Effective September 19, 2022 We appreciate your understanding and kindness when dealing with our staff, who continue to work tirelessly to provide the best possible care for your furry family member. Thank you for trusting Portland Veterinary E

mergency and Specialty Care. Our goal is to stay healthy so we can continue to care for your pets. We appreciate your cooperation, understanding, and patience with the following policies:

You Must Be Healthy to Bring Your Pet
• If you are exhibiting any symptoms of COVID-19 -such as fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, have tested positive and/or are in quarantine, regardless of vaccination status please reschedule your routine appointment. If your pet must be seen on emergency basis, please stay home and send your pet to the appointment with a healthy individual. What to Expect When You Arrive
• We appreciate your understanding and patience with the adjustments being made during our reopening process. Our goal is to stay healthy so we can continue to care for your pet.
• Park: Please pull into a parking space and stay in your car. Each parking spot is numbered.
• Call: Call us at 207-878-3121, option 1 for Emergency, option 2 for scheduled surgery, option 3 for ophthalmology and dermatology, option 4 for all other specialties. Tell the client service representative (CSR) your name, your pet’s name, the reason for visit, your mobile phone number, and your parking spot number or car description.
• Fill out the form: The CSR will ask you if you’ve completed the online Client Information Sheet. If you haven’t filled out the form, you can do so online, or a printed version is available on a clipboard by the front door. Paper forms can be left in the appropriate spot on the table.
• Await our call: It is important for you to keep your mobile phone with you — and to stay off your phone — so you can answer when we attempt to reach you through mobile communication. The technician assigned to your pet will call you to acquire a thorough history for your visit. At that time, they will discuss our current safety protocol regarding COVID19.
• Masking: Masks are optional but remain highly recommended and may still be required on a case-by-case basis. Please be respectful of the requests from the individual providing your pet’s care.
• Curbside Option: Please alert the staff to your preference if you would prefer a curbside appointment.
• Bring your pet to the door: Once your exam room is ready, the technician will ask you to bring your pet and meet them at the tent or specialty awning depending on your reason for visit. They will guide you to your exam room. Only 2 (two) people will be permitted inside for the visit. After the initial exam you may be asked to return to your car while your pet receives diagnostics or treatments.
• Payments Payment will be taken in person or over the phone (credit card, Care Credit, Scratch Pay). If you wish to pay by cash, please let the CSR know. Your invoice will be emailed to you, or printed upon request. Please be aware, a 50% (Fifty Percent) deposit is required for the higher end of the estimate. The deposit must be taken prior to diagnostics and treatment being performed.

It’s National Veterinary Receptionist Week, and we’re shining the spotlight on our incredible Client Service Representat...
04/21/2025

It’s National Veterinary Receptionist Week, and we’re shining the spotlight on our incredible Client Service Representatives (CSRs)!

These incredible individuals are the backbone of our veterinary hospital, working tirelessly to ensure your visit runs smoothly from start to finish. Our CSRs go above and beyond to make sure your furry friends receive the care they deserve.

Help us celebrate them this week! Drop a comment below to share your appreciation for the amazing work our CSRs do every day. 🌟

We’re wishing you and your furry family members a joyful Easter filled with love, treats, and a few extra belly rubs. Re...
04/20/2025

We’re wishing you and your furry family members a joyful Easter filled with love, treats, and a few extra belly rubs.

Reminder: Keep those Easter goodies—like chocolate and lilies—out of paw’s reach! If your pet gets into something they shouldn’t, we’re here to help. Our emergency room is open 24/7/365, even on holidays. 💐🍫

Introducing our dedicated Oncology Team at PVESC! 🌟 Our team is specially trained in providing compassionate and compreh...
04/18/2025

Introducing our dedicated Oncology Team at PVESC! 🌟 Our team is specially trained in providing compassionate and comprehensive cancer treatment for your beloved pets. We prioritize the quality of life throughout every step of this challenging journey.

Our Oncology Team offers a range of options tailored to your pet’s unique needs. Whether the decision is no treatment, eastern-based supplements, chemotherapy, surgery, or a combination thereof, we are here to support you and your furry friend.

Learn more about our Oncology Services here: https://www.pvesc.com/specialty-care/oncology/

Human NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin can be extremely dangerous to animals.In dogs and cats, ibuprofen can...
04/17/2025

Human NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin can be extremely dangerous to animals.

In dogs and cats, ibuprofen can cause stomach ulcers and GI bleeding, kidney failure, neurological symptoms like seizures, and death, in severe cases. Cats are especially sensitive to NSAIDs and can be harmed by even tinier amounts.

If you suspect your dog or cat has accidentally consumed an NSAID, don’t wait! 🚨Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Hotline at (888) 426-4435. Our emergency room is open 24/7/365, ready to help your furry family member.

We want to help you celebrate a pet-safe Easter on Sunday! Lilies, particularly for cats, can be highly toxic and can le...
04/15/2025

We want to help you celebrate a pet-safe Easter on Sunday! Lilies, particularly for cats, can be highly toxic and can lead to severe health issues (like kidney failure) if ingested. For those receiving floral gifts, take a moment to sift through the arrangement and remove any lilies. When sending a floral arrangement to someone with a cat, make sure to specify that it should contain no lilies.

Pets can be curious, and they might nibble on flowers, leaves or stem out of curiosity. If your pet shows symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, it could be an indication that they have ingested a harmful part of a plant, and you should seek veterinary care. Post this phone number in your house for quick reference:  ASPCA Animal Poison Control Hotline at (888) 426-4435.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle giants known for their sweet temperament and stunning tri-color coats! As large working...
04/13/2025

Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle giants known for their sweet temperament and stunning tri-color coats! As large working dogs, they thrive with care and attention to their unique health needs.

🦴 Joint & Bone Health: Berners are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can cause pain and mobility issues. Keep them at a healthy weight, avoid strenuous exercise during growth, and consider joint supplements with your vet’s guidance.

🧬 Cancer Risk: Berners have a higher risk of certain cancers, including histiocytic sarcoma and lymphoma. Be alert for unusual lumps or changes in behavior and seek prompt veterinary evaluation.

🫁 Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): Like many deep-chested breeds, Berners are at risk for bloat, a life-threatening condition. Feeding smaller meals throughout the day and avoiding vigorous activity after eating can reduce the risk.

🧥 Coat Care: Their thick double coats require regular brushing to prevent matting and manage shedding. Routine grooming also gives you a chance to check for skin issues or parasites.

🦷 Dental Health: While not as prone as smaller breeds, dental disease can still be an issue. Brushing their teeth and offering dental chews helps maintain oral hygiene.

💓 Heart & Endocrine Monitoring: Conditions like hypothyroidism or cardiomyopathy can occur in Berners. Regular blood work and wellness exams are key for early detection.

With love, preventative care, and plenty of time spent by your side, your Bernese Mountain Dog can enjoy a life full of comfort, loyalty, and adventure!

Happy National Pet Day! 🐾🎉April 11th is a special day dedicated to our furry companions! Let's celebrate by sharing the ...
04/11/2025

Happy National Pet Day! 🐾🎉

April 11th is a special day dedicated to our furry companions! Let's celebrate by sharing the love with all pets, especially those in need. To honor this day, consider donating or volunteering at local animal shelters to make a difference in the lives of orphaned pets. 💙

📸: Share a photo of your pet in the comments below and spread some joy!

This sweet 11-year-old Pomeranian, Moxie, recently visited us to see one of our Board-Certified Veterinary Surgeons, Dr....
04/07/2025

This sweet 11-year-old Pomeranian, Moxie, recently visited us to see one of our Board-Certified Veterinary Surgeons, Dr. Meghan Sullivan. Moxie had been struggling with a mass on digit #5 of his left front paw. Despite wound care at home, the mass continued to negatively affect his comfort and quality of life.

To help Moxie feel better and get a clear diagnosis, Dr. Sullivan recommended surgery to remove the digit and mass. This procedure helped to ensure Moxie can enjoy a pain-free life once again.

Pictured is Moxie being cuddled post-surgery with his festive bandage in the St. Patrick’s Day spirit!

Meet Teddy, a sweet and resilient Shih Tzu who spent time in our hospital in November 2024 after being diagnosed with se...
04/06/2025

Meet Teddy, a sweet and resilient Shih Tzu who spent time in our hospital in November 2024 after being diagnosed with severe immune-mediated thrombocytopenia—a disease where Teddy’s own immune system began destroying his platelets.

Under the care of Dr. Shoelson and our Internal Medicine Service, Teddy has been recovering. As a heartfelt thank-you, Teddy’s loving family created this beautiful artwork for Dr. Shoelson and his team—a reminder of the incredible bond between our patients, their families, and our veterinary team. 💙

Meet Lola, Our Pet of the Month! 🐾 Lola recently visited our Surgery team for treatment of a corkscrew tail, also known ...
04/01/2025

Meet Lola, Our Pet of the Month! 🐾 Lola recently visited our Surgery team for treatment of a corkscrew tail, also known as screw tail or ingrown tail—a condition common in Bulldogs. This occurs when the tail vertebrae are abnormally shaped or fused, creating a tight curvature that can lead to discomfort and skin issues.

Thanks to our expert surgical team, Lola is now on the road to recovery and feeling much better! 💙

If you have a Bulldog or another breed prone to this condition, our team is here to help with expert advice and care.

Meet Evelyn Rose, a sweet 15-week-old Old English Bulldog who recently swallowed a piece of her toy! When she started sh...
03/30/2025

Meet Evelyn Rose, a sweet 15-week-old Old English Bulldog who recently swallowed a piece of her toy! When she started showing gastrointestinal signs, she was brought to our ER, where an ultrasound revealed foreign material in her stomach.

Thanks to the expertise of our Internal Medicine team, we successfully performed an endoscopic retrieval—removing the object without surgery!

If you ever suspect ingestion of a foreign object, seek veterinary care immediately!

At PVESC, our Surgery Team is committed to providing exceptional surgical care for pets, ensuring they receive the best ...
03/27/2025

At PVESC, our Surgery Team is committed to providing exceptional surgical care for pets, ensuring they receive the best possible treatment for a wide range of conditions. From orthopedic and soft tissue procedures to advanced minimally invasive techniques, our Board-Certified Veterinary Surgeons utilize state-of-the-art technology to perform precise, life-changing surgeries.

Whether your pet requires a routine procedure or a complex surgical intervention, you can trust our team to deliver expert care with compassion.

Learn more about our surgery services here: https://www.pvesc.com/specialty-care/surgery/

Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) are a common parasite that can cause intense itching, discomfort, and ear infections in ca...
03/24/2025

Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) are a common parasite that can cause intense itching, discomfort, and ear infections in cats and dogs. These microscopic pests live in the ear canal, feeding on wax and oils, leading to inflammation and irritation.

Signs of Ear Mites
🐾Frequent head shaking and scratching
🐾Dark, coffee-ground-like discharge in the ears
🐾Redness, swelling, or foul odor
🐾Hair loss or scabs around the ears from excessive scratching

If you suspect your pet has ear mites, schedule a visit with your primary care veterinarian as soon as possible to relieve their discomfort and prevent further complications.

📸: This is a picture of an ear mite recently found in a feline patient.

Did you know? Ultrasound isn’t just for humans—it’s a powerful tool in veterinary medicine that keeps your pets healthy!...
03/23/2025

Did you know? Ultrasound isn’t just for humans—it’s a powerful tool in veterinary medicine that keeps your pets healthy! 🏥💙

With fast, real-time imaging and no invasive procedures, ultrasound allows us to diagnose and treat conditions quickly, ensuring the best care for your furry friends.

Learn more about our Internal Medicine services here: https://www.pvesc.com/specialty-care/internal-medicine/

03/20/2025

It’s Prevention of Lyme Disease in Dogs Month!

As temperatures rise, ticks become more active, increasing the risk of tick-borne illnesses for your pets. Prevention and regularly inspecting your dog for ticks can mean the difference between a wagging tail and a health scare. 🔎

It’s important to note that Lyme disease is not the only tick-borne illness to be aware of; there are several others, including Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Babesiosis, and Powassan Virus. To protect your pet from tick-borne diseases, consult with your veterinarian for appropriate prevention measures.

Can you guess what’s going on with this pet’s x-ray? 🩻 Hint: It’s something you might use when traveling. Scroll down an...
03/18/2025

Can you guess what’s going on with this pet’s x-ray? 🩻

Hint: It’s something you might use when traveling.

Scroll down and read below when you’re ready!

ANSWER:

It was an AirTag! This little tracker made its way into a very curious pet’s stomach. Thankfully, our team was able to take the necessary steps to keep them safe.

This is a great reminder to keep small objects out of paws’ reach! If your pet swallows something they shouldn’t, give us a call right away

Dachshunds are full of personality and charm! Their long bodies and short legs make them adorable, but they also come wi...
03/16/2025

Dachshunds are full of personality and charm! Their long bodies and short legs make them adorable, but they also come with some specific health concerns that owners should watch for.

🦴 Back & Spine Health: Dachshunds are highly prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which can lead to pain, mobility issues, or even paralysis. Avoid excessive jumping, use ramps for furniture, and keep them at a healthy weight to reduce strain on their backs.

🐾 Obesity Risks: With their small frames, even a little extra weight can put stress on their joints and spine. Regular exercise and portion-controlled meals help keep them fit and healthy.

👂 Ear Infections: Their floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, making ear infections a common issue. Cleaning their ears regularly can help prevent infections.

🦷 Dental Health: Small breeds like Dachshunds are prone to dental disease. Brushing their teeth and providing dental chews can help keep their mouths healthy.

👁️ Eye Problems: Dachshunds can develop progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts, leading to vision loss. Regular eye check-ups are important for early detection.

🫀 Heart Health: They are also at risk for certain heart conditions, such as mitral valve disease. Routine vet check-ups can help monitor their heart health over time.

With proper care, regular vet visits, and lots of love, your Dachshund can live a happy and healthy life!

Address

739 Warren Avenue. & 2255 Congress Street
Portland, ME
04103

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