FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Urgent care comes with questions, and these are the questions pet parents ask most. Want to chat? Give us a call. 

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need to make an appointment?

Appointments are encouraged, but not required. At Scout, we offer same-day and next-day veterinary urgent care appointments for dogs and cats to help you plan ahead and cut down on wait times. That said, walk-ins are always welcome, because we know that pet problems don’t always give you a heads-up. Not sure what your pet needs? Give us a call. We’ll help you figure out your next step, whether that’s coming in now or scheduling a time that works.



Is there parking?

Yes, we offer convenient parking options at all of our locations. Street parking is available near each clinic, and some locations also have dedicated parking lots. Please check your specific clinic's location page for detailed parking information.

Why can't I book an appointment for next week?

It’s important that we keep our promise of being an Urgent Care. This means we currently don’t schedule routine appointments—we’re here for the unexpected.

 



What pets do you treat at Scout Veterinary Urgent Care?

We treat cats and dogs only at Scout Veterinary Urgent Care. Our team of experienced veterinarians and technicians are specially trained to handle a wide variety of urgent care conditions for these beloved companions. If you have questions about whether we can help your pet, please give us a call.

What sets urgent care apart from emergency care?

Urgent care addresses conditions that need prompt attention but are not immediately life-threatening—think of it like an urgent care clinic for humans versus an emergency room. We handle issues like vomiting, diarrhea, minor injuries, ear infections, allergic reactions, and more. For true emergencies such as difficulty breathing, seizures, or severe trauma, we recommend going directly to an emergency veterinary hospital.

What happens if my pet needs additional care after their visit to Scout?

If your pet requires follow-up care or specialized treatment beyond what we provide, our veterinarians will create a detailed care plan and refer you to the appropriate specialist or to your primary care veterinarian. We ensure a smooth handoff by sharing all relevant medical records and treatment notes. We've got your back!

How do I know if my pet needs Urgent Care?

If your pet is experiencing symptoms that concern you but don't appear immediately life-threatening, urgent care is likely the right choice. Common reasons to visit include limping, cuts or minor wounds, eye issues, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, urinary issues, skin rashes, and ear infections. When in doubt, give us a call and our team can help you determine the best course of action.

How many Scout clinics are there?

Scout Veterinary Urgent Care currently operates multiple clinic locations in the Chicago area, with plans for continued expansion. Each location is designed to provide the same high standard of care in a modern, welcoming environment. Visit our locations page for the most up-to-date list of clinics.

What types of cases does Scout's urgent care service handle?

We handle a wide range of non-life-threatening conditions including gastrointestinal issues, skin and ear infections, minor injuries and lacerations, urinary problems, allergic reactions, eye conditions, respiratory issues, and more. Our team is equipped with on-site diagnostics to quickly assess and treat your pet.

Do you offer diagnostic testing onsite?

Yes! We have comprehensive on-site diagnostic capabilities including digital X-rays, ultrasound, blood work (CBC, chemistry panels), urinalysis, cytology, and more. Having these tools in-house allows us to quickly diagnose your pet's condition and begin treatment during the same visit.

Can I bring my pet to Scout for routine check-ups?

Scout Veterinary Urgent Care is specifically designed for urgent care needs rather than routine wellness visits. For annual check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care, we recommend establishing a relationship with a primary care veterinarian. We are happy to offer recommendations. However, if your pet has an urgent issue that needs prompt attention, we're here to help.

Does Scout offer any services for senior pets?

Absolutely! We treat pets of all ages, including senior companions. Our team is experienced in handling the unique health concerns that come with aging pets, such as mobility issues, chronic condition flare-ups, and sudden changes in behavior or appetite. We provide compassionate, thorough care tailored to your senior pet's needs.