Call before you drive. An exotic animal veterinarian is not on duty at every hour in every hospital. Tell the team the species and the problem, and ask whether they can see your pet now or which hospital can.
Emergency hospitals that see exotic pets near St. Louis
VEG Brentwood
Open now · 24/7Veterinary Emergency Group2101 South Brentwood Boulevard, Brentwood, MO 63144Exotic petsEmergency surgeryWalk-insWhat the hospital says: “…wounds, ear and eye infections, and constipation Exotic pet care: we treat all types of exotic pets, including reptiles, birds, turtles, snakes, lizards and more. End of…”
Verified November 4, 20265.7 miles(314) 970-2545VEG St. Peters
Open now · 24/7Veterinary Emergency Group250 Mid Rivers Mall Circle, St. Peters, MO 63376Exotic petsBlood transfusionWalk-insWhat the hospital says: “From vomiting to complex surgeries, we treat emergency and urgent care needs for all kinds of pets, including avians and exotics.”
Verified November 4, 202623 miles(636) 206-4789Animal Emergency Clinic
Open now · 24/7334 Fort Zumwalt Square, O’Fallon, MO 63366Exotic petsCareCreditScratchpayWhat the hospital says: “We also offer emergency care for exotic pets at our O'Fallon location.”
Verified November 4, 202628 miles(636) 240-5496
Listed only where the hospital's own website says it treats exotic species; the quote shows the wording. Distances are straight-line from the center of St. Louis. For dogs and cats, see all emergency vets in St. Louis.
While you travel
- Birds: keep the bird warm (a covered carrier in a warm car) and quiet; do not offer food or water if it is weak or breathing with effort.
- Rabbits: a rabbit that stops eating or passing droppings for 12 hours needs the same-day attention of a veterinarian.
- Reptiles: transport in a secure, ventilated container at the animal's normal temperature range; avoid overheating in the car.
Poison emergencies
If you think your pet swallowed something toxic
Call one of the two national animal poison lines while you get ready to leave. Both are staffed by veterinary toxicology specialists around the clock; expect a consultation fee per case.
ASPCA (888) 426-4435 Helpline (855) 764-7661
Numbers checked on the official ASPCA and Pet Poison Helpline sites, November 2026. What to do while you call. Dose calculators: chocolate, xylitol, grapes and raisins, ibuprofen.