Contact
New Bolton Center Kennett Square, PA
Emergencies & Appointments:
610-444-5800
Directions
Ryan Hospital Philadelphia, PA
Emergencies:
215-746-8911
Appointments:
215-746-8387
Directions
New Bolton Center Emergency

Common Emergencies


How do you know when it's time to call the veterinarian and what can you do while you're waiting? And what sorts of emergencies are critical?

Penn Vet’s New Bolton Center is a leader in large animal Emergency Critical Care, with a team of dual-board-certified specialists, specifically trained in emergency critical care, surgery, and internal medicine.

Available around the clock, 365 days per year, our critical care experts are dedicated to answering all of your questions and providing comprehensive emergency medical and surgical care to all large animals suffering from life-threatening illnesses or injuries. We offer state-of-the-art intensive care in a compassionate environment, to respond to our patients when they need us most.


When is it an emergency?


  • Dealing with Colic

    Call ahead! A call from either you or your veterinarian to speak with the on-call veterinarian will allow us to be ready and waiting for you when you arrive at New Bolton Center. We are also available to consult by phone if you are not sure whether or not your horse should be referred in to New Bolton Center. See more information on this condition in 'Common Emergencies - Colic'.

  • Dealing with Lacerations and Cuts

    Any cut or laceration should be seen by your veterinarian. Even a small cut on the back of a fetlock could be serious if not treated immediately. Both the size and the location of the wound need to be considered and your local veterinarian can help you decide if your horse should be referred in for further treatment. 

  • Dealing with Serious Trauma

    Any animal that has sustained serious trauma should be seen immediately by either your local veterinarian or by a specialist at New Bolton Center. Serious underlying conditions can be initially masked by adrenaline and prompt veterinary care should always be sought.

  • Dealing with Fever and Coughing
    • There are dozens of reasons why your horse could be coughing. A cough could be a mild irritation, or it could indicate an underlying condition that needs treatment. By paying close attention to when and where the cough occurs, as well as any additional clinical signs, you can help your veterinarian find the cause of the cough and the cure for your horse.
    • The first thing to determine is whether your horse has a fever. Take your horse's temperature. If the temperature is higher than 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit, contact your veterinarian. A cough with a fever may indicate an infection and warrants veterinary care immediately.
  • Dealing with Down Animals

    If your horse or animal is experiencing periods of recumbency (lying down and being unable to rise), they should be examined by your veterinarian or brought to New Bolton Center. Even if your  horse cannot get up, it is still possible to transport your horse to New Bolton Center for further evaluation and treatment. Our Field Service and local clients have the additional support of calling our equine ambulance for such needs.