Route 66 Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Center

FAQs
General FAQs
Do you see exotic animals?
Yes. Our veterinarians are experienced and prepared to care for exotics such as birds, reptiles, and pocket pets. However, we are not equipped to see hoof stock, large carnivores, primates or venomous species.
Will you communicate with my regular veterinarian?
Yes. We consider your regular veterinarian to be an integral part of your pet’s care! Your vet will receive constant communications from our doctors. In addition, and tests and records created at Route 66 Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Center will be at your regular veterinarian’s disposal.
If your pet requires additional care during your veterinarian’s regular operating hours we encourage you to take your pet to them.
Where are you located?
We are in southeast Albuquerque, at 3601 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM, 87108-1010
What should I do if I find a stray animal?
If you are within the city limits of Albuquerque call 311 or go online to www.abq311.org to get a hold of Albuquerque’s Animal Welfare Department. If you are outside the city limits but within Bernalillo County call 505-468-PETS and view more information about their Animal Care Services.
We are always more than happy to scan a pet for a microchip but it is up to the Good Samaritan to find the owner and or bring the pet to a local animal shelter.
Check In & Triage FAQs
When is emergency care right for my pet?
If your pet has a non-life-threatening issue such as limping, an ear infection, skin allergies, or other non-life-threatening concerns, an ER or URGENT visit may be right for you, BUT you will likely experience a longer wait than more critical and life-threatening cases. We are here to help all patients wherever we can!
URGENT AND EMERGENCY CASES SHOULD HEAD TO THE HOSPITAL ASAP YOU CAN CALL ON THE WAY FOR SPEEDY CHECK IN, BUT DO NOT DELAY IF YOU ARE CONCERNED AN ISSUE IS LIFE-THREATENING!
Do you take appointments?
No appointment is necessary; walk-ins are welcome. All patients are seen based on the severity of their condition.
Can I bring in multiple pets?
Absolutely, if more than one pet needs to be seen, we will check them in and see them individually.
What if I decide I no longer want/need to have my pet seen?
Please let our front desk team know so we can remove your pet from our waiting queue/check-in list. Please note that you may always return later.
How do I know if my pet’s condition is critical and needs to be brought in immediately, or stable and able to wait their turn?
We understand that it can be difficult to know whether your sick pet needs immediate emergency care or if their condition can wait. If you’re unsure, we encourage you to give us a call. Our team is always happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best next steps for your pet’s care.
Do you take pets in the order they are checked in? Are you able to give an estimated wait time for my pet to be seen?
As an emergency veterinary hospital, we make every effort to see patients in the order they check in; however, all pets are also evaluated through a three-tier triage system, with Priority 1 cases being seen first. After you check in, our team will assess your pet based on the symptoms you’ve provided and update you with an estimated wait time. If you believe your pet is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call us immediately at (505) 266‑7866.
PRIORITY 1: May survive if life-saving measures are applied
Examples: poisoning, collapse, bloat (GDV), active seizures, allergic reactions, traffic accident, difficulty breathing, urinary tract blockage, and heat stroke
PRIORITY 2: Likely to survive if care is given within hours
Examples: closed fractures, diarrhea, active vomiting, bowel obstruction, and urinary tract infections
PRIORITY 3: Non-life-threatening conditions
Examples: skin conditions, lameness, abscesses, minor wounds, sore eyes/ears, and chronic diseases
