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 Pittsburgh
VEG Pittsburgh
Open now · 24/7Veterinary Emergency Group6244 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206Exotic petsWalk-insWhat the hospital says: “VEG is skilled to handle emergency care for avians, reptiles, and all types of exotic pets.”
Verified November 4, 20263.1 miles(412) 690-0511Avets
Open now · 24/72674 Monroeville Boulevard, Monroeville, PA 15146Exotic petsICUEmergency surgeryCT or MRIBlood transfusionWhat the hospital says: “…For Veterinarians Careers Emergency Contact Us Avian & Exotics The Avian & Exotics service at Avets is available to evaluate, diagnose, and treat all…”
Verified November 4, 202610 miles(412) 373-4200VEG Cranberry
Open now · 24/7Veterinary Emergency Group7400 Cranberry Springs Dr, Cranberry, PA 16066Exotic petsICUWalk-insWhat the hospital says: “We treat all kinds of pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits, reptiles, rodents, and birds.”
Verified November 4, 202620 miles(878) 206-9810
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 Pittsburgh. For dogs and cats, see all emergency vets in Pittsburgh.
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.