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 Winston-Salem
Veterinary Emergency Hospital of Concord (VEHC)
Open now · 24/78014 Myint Lane, Concord, NC 28027Exotic petsICUEmergency surgeryBlood transfusionWalk-insWhat the hospital says: “ We treat dogs, cats, and select exotics.”
Verified November 4, 202655 miles(980) 350-8342Carolina Veterinary Specialists
Open now · 24/712117 Statesville Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078Exotic petsCT or MRICareCreditScratchpayWhat the hospital says: “…Sets Us Apart Hospital Tour Specialties Internal Medicine Surgery Avian & Exotics Emergencies Diagnostics Referrals Patients Patient Information New Client Form -…”
Verified November 4, 202660 miles(704) 949-1100
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 Winston-Salem. For dogs and cats, see all emergency vets in Winston-Salem.
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.