Facing a pet emergency is one of the most stressful experiences a pet parent can endure. The anxiety of seeing your beloved animal in distress, coupled with the uncertainty of finding immediate, compassionate, and comprehensive care, can be overwhelming. Thankfully, for residents and visitors in Colorado, Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder stands out as a facility that is fundamentally shifting the standard for emergency veterinary services, focusing on keeping families together during these critical moments.
Located strategically to serve the Boulder community and surrounding areas, VEG Boulder offers a level of care and comfort previously uncommon in the traditional emergency vet model. This isn’t just about treating an ailment; it’s about providing a supportive environment for both the patient and their human family.
A New Model for Pet Emergency Care
Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG), founded by Dr. David Bessler and David Glattstein in 2014, was conceived with a revolutionary idea: applying principles from pediatric emergency care to the veterinary world. Dr. Bessler, an experienced emergency veterinarian and a father, recognized the emotional toll of separation during a child’s medical crisis and saw a parallel need in pet care. This core philosophy – that families should not be separated from their pets during emergencies – is the bedrock of the VEG model, and it’s fully implemented at the Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder location.
Unlike traditional animal hospitals where owners might have limited access, VEG encourages pet parents to stay by their animal’s side throughout the entire visit, from examination to treatment and even overnight stays.

Inside the welcoming space at Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder, designed for pet and owner comfort.
24/7 Care and Support in Boulder
One of the most critical aspects of emergency veterinary care is availability. Accidents and illnesses don’t adhere to a schedule, and prompt attention can make a significant difference. Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, ensuring that expert help is always within reach when your pet needs it most. This round-the-clock service is a lifeline for pet owners facing late-night scares or weekend incidents when regular veterinary clinics are closed.
Their commitment to accessibility extends beyond just physical presence; VEG also offers a free 24/7 phone triage service. Pet parents can call the Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder location anytime to speak directly with a licensed veterinarian who can provide immediate guidance, help assess the severity of the situation, and advise on whether an emergency visit is necessary. This free consultation can save valuable time and reduce anxiety during a crisis.
Empathy and Transparency Every Step of the Way
The stress of a pet emergency is immense, and VEG’s approach is designed to alleviate this as much as possible. Dr. Lindsey Geiger, Medical Director at Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder, highlights the unique environment: “The idea was, the biggest part was, to not separate people from their pets.” This philosophy permeates every interaction. Pet parents are welcomed into the treatment area, can observe procedures, ask questions, and participate in decision-making.
This transparency builds trust and helps owners feel more in control during a chaotic time. Care is often administered with the pet comfortable on the ground or even in the owner’s lap, minimizing fear and anxiety for the animal. The team at Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder understands the deep bond between pets and their families and strives to make the emergency experience as gentle and supportive as possible for everyone involved.
A comforting scene showcasing the compassionate care approach at VEG Boulder, where pets and owners stay together.
Comfort-Focused Facilities
To facilitate the “stay together” model, Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder is equipped with facilities designed for both patient and owner comfort. Recognizing that some emergencies require overnight observation or extended stays, VEG offers private care rooms where pet parents are encouraged to stay overnight with their pets. These rooms are equipped with amenities like Murphy beds, allowing owners to rest comfortably while remaining close to their furry companions.
This simple yet profound feature provides immense peace of mind and likely aids in the pet’s recovery by reducing stress caused by separation. The ability to be present, to provide comfort, and to witness the care being given is invaluable during a pet health crisis, a core offering of Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder.
Addressing Financial Burdens with VEG Cares
Emergency veterinary care can be expensive, adding financial stress to an already difficult situation. Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder, as part of the larger VEG network, is committed to helping families navigate these costs. The VEG Cares program is a company-funded initiative designed to subsidize emergency treatment for families who may be facing financial hardship. This program provides a crucial safety net, allowing more pet owners to afford the critical care their animals need without compromising their financial stability. While not every case can be fully covered, the existence of VEG Cares demonstrates VEG’s dedication to its mission of helping as many pets and families as possible, making quality emergency care at Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder more accessible.
Common Emergencies in Boulder and How VEG Helps
Boulder’s active lifestyle and unique environment mean pets here can encounter specific risks. Rattlesnake bites, for instance, are a real concern for dogs hiking the numerous trails around the city, especially during warmer months. Swallowing foreign objects – from toys to parts of hiking gear or even unusual natural items found outdoors – is another frequent cause of emergency visits. Falls, encounters with other wildlife, heatstroke during summer activities, or unexpected allergic reactions can also necessitate immediate veterinary attention. Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder is well-equipped to handle the wide range of emergencies common to the area.
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Their experienced team of emergency veterinarians and technicians are skilled in diagnosing and treating critical conditions, providing specialized care tailored to the urgent needs of pets in the Boulder community. Having a reliable, 24/7 facility like Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder provides essential reassurance for local pet parents engaging in outdoor activities or simply navigating daily life with their furry family members.
What to Expect When You Arrive
Arriving at an emergency vet can be disorienting. Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder aims to make the process as smooth as possible. Upon arrival, a veterinary professional will quickly assess your pet’s condition to determine the urgency. You won’t be left in a waiting room for hours without updates; communication is key. The VEG model emphasizes getting you and your pet into a comfortable space quickly. The veterinary team will discuss findings, potential diagnoses, treatment options, and associated costs transparently.
Because you can stay with your pet, you’re directly involved in these conversations and can comfort your pet during examinations or initial treatments. This open approach, combined with the ability to remain present, is a hallmark of the service provided by Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder.
Why Choose Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder?
For pet owners in the Boulder area, choosing Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder means opting for a different kind of emergency care. It means choosing a place where your pet’s comfort and your peace of mind are prioritized alongside excellent medical treatment. The ability to stay with your pet, the transparent communication, the 24/7 availability, the free phone triage, the dedicated care rooms, and the support through programs like VEG Cares all contribute to a less stressful and more humane emergency experience.
While no one ever wants to need emergency veterinary services, knowing that a facility like Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder exists, ready to provide compassionate, expert care around the clock while keeping your family together, offers invaluable security for any pet parent in the region. It’s more than just an animal hospital; it’s a partner in caring for your pet during their most vulnerable moments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder
What hours is Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder open?
Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays. They are always available for pet emergencies.
Can I stay with my pet during their emergency visit?
Yes, one of the core principles of Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder is allowing pet parents to stay with their pets throughout the entire visit, including during examinations, procedures, and overnight stays in designated care rooms.
Does VEG Boulder offer free consultations?
Veterinary Emergency Group offers a free 24/7 phone triage service. You can call the Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder location at any time to speak with a licensed veterinarian for advice regarding your pet’s emergency.
What types of emergencies does Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder treat?
VEG Boulder is equipped to handle a wide range of pet emergencies, including accidents, sudden illnesses, injuries from wildlife encounters (like rattlesnake bites common in the area), foreign object ingestion, toxic exposures, difficulty breathing, seizures, and more.
What is the VEG Cares program?
VEG Cares is a company-funded program at Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder (and other VEG locations) that helps provide financial assistance to families who may struggle to afford the full cost of emergency treatment for their pet.
Where is Veterinary Emergency Group Boulder located?
Please refer to the official Veterinary Emergency Group website (veterinaryemergencygroup.com) for the specific address and contact information for the Boulder location.