Emergency Veterinarian Hospital 
Oceanside, CA

Urgent & Emergency Care for Cats & Dogs

open Daily | noon - 10 pm

Locally Owned & Operated Animal Urgent Care

From sudden illnesses and unexpected injuries to critical conditions, trauma, and after-hours emergencies, Lifeline Animal Urgent Care delivers prompt and exceptional veterinary medicine exactly when your pet needs it most. Trust our experienced veterinarians for compassionate and skilled care, providing daily peace of mind to Oceanside pet families.


Click below to call:

(760) 231-5454

Prioritizing your pet’s health and comfort

Our Emergency Services

We offer a comprehensive range of urgent and emergency care services to address cats' and dogs' medical needs. With state-of-the-art technology and expert care, our Fear-Free Certified team is equipped to handle a wide variety of cases and surgeries.

  • We assess your pet's condition quickly, relieve discomfort, and prevent further complications.
  • Our experienced team uses on-site diagnostics, in-house lab testing, and real-time imaging to identify the cause precisely.
  • Every patient receives gentle, low-stress care from our Fear-Free Certified staff, creating a calmer, smoother experience from the moment they arrive.

From minor emergencies to more complex symptoms, we provide the skilled support your pet needs - right when it matters most.


See All Services & Surgeries
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a female veterinarian holds a dog in her hands

here to support you At every step

About Us

At Lifeline Animal Urgent Care, we bridge the gap between routine vet visits and emergency hospital services, providing immediate, compassionate medical attention precisely when your pet needs it. Our multilingual veterinarians, fluent in Spanish, German, Japanese, and Tagalog, reflect the diverse community we serve in North County and our dedicated focus on delivering personalized care to pets experiencing sudden symptoms, injuries, or unexpected health concerns.

More About Us

Core Values That Guide Our Veterinary Care

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Deep Commitment to the Human-Animal Bond

At Lifeline Animal Urgent Care, we honor and safeguard the special bond between pets and their owners, ensuring that our care is compassionate and respectful of this relationship.

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Exceptional Medical Care When It Counts

We provide top-tier urgent and emergency veterinary services that bridge the gap between your primary care veterinarian and 24-hour specialty hospitals, ensuring comprehensive care for your pets.

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Compassionate & Educational Approach

Our dedicated team offers unparalleled compassion and education to pet parents, helping you make informed decisions about your pet's health and well-being.

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Tailored Solutions at Accessible Costs

We deliver high-quality medical care with personalized solutions, maintaining affordability and accessibility without compromising excellent care.

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Supportive & Empowered Veterinary Team

Our privately owned practice, proud to serve Oceanside, provides a nurturing environment for our veterinary professionals, ensuring they are valued, supported, and able to offer the best care to your pets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have A Quick Question?

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions page for more quick answers and helpful information!

See All FAQs

  • Do I need an appointment to visit Lifeline Animal Urgent Care?

    No appointment is necessary! However, we encourage you to call ahead to check our availability. This helps us to significantly reduce your time in the waiting room and ensures a smoother experience. We’ll notify you as soon as we’re ready for your visit.


  • What are your operating hours?

    Our hours are 10AM to 8PM on weekdays and 8AM to 6PM on weekends. We're closed overnight.


  • What types of animals do you treat?

    We specialize exclusively in treating cats and dogs. Our facility is equipped and staffed to handle the unique needs of these specific pets, ensuring the best possible care for your furry family members.


  • What conditions and injuries do you treat?

    We treat a wide range of urgent and emergency conditions, including but not limited to:

    • Vomiting and diarrhea

    • Respiratory issues such as coughing or difficulty breathing

    • Lacerations, wounds, or bite injuries

    • Limping or sudden lameness

    • Eye and ear infections

    • Exposure to toxins

    • Unexplained pain, lethargy, or behavior changes

      • Our on-site diagnostics, surgical capabilities, and experienced veterinarians ensure quick and effective treatment for most non-life-threatening cases. Our full list of services & surgeries can be found here .

  • How long will it take before my pet is seen?

    Wait times vary based on case severity and patient volume. Emergencies are prioritized. By letting us know you are coming, we can better manage your arrival and reduce wait times, especially during peak hours.


  • Do you accept pet insurance or offer payment plans?

    We do not directly provide payment plans, but we take Care Credit and Scratch Pay. With insurance the client pays at the time of service and then submits a claim to their insurance for reimbursement. Lifeline AUC will help provide any needed documentation to the insurance company as requested.


  • What should I do if my pet needs care outside of your operating hours?

    If your pet experiences an emergency outside our business hours, we recommend contacting a 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital in the area. We've listed local 24-hour options on our Support & Information page.