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(908) 236-4120

23 Blossom Hill Rd, Lebanon, NJ 08833 - Open 24/7

Emergency Only
Crown Veterinary Specialists & Associates logo features a crown design and the motto "Together We Heal" in blue and gold colors.

Critical Care

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24-Hour Emergency Care

In partnership with the emergency room at Crown Veterinary Specialists, our ICU is staffed with a criticalist certified by the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, residency trained Emergency and Critical Care clinician, and veterinarians who have advanced training in emergency medicine. A staff of dedicated nurses, several of whom are in the process of getting certified in veterinary emergency and critical care, provide the utmost in care for our ill patients.

The Critical Care Unit (CCU) is equipped with continuous cardiac telemetry, indirect blood pressure monitoring, pulse oximetry, blood gas and other monitoring devices. Critical care enclosures provide an oxygen-enriched, temperature and humidity-controlled environment for our most critical patients. Advanced techniques such as blood component therapy, invasive blood pressure monitoring, nutritional therapy, and pain management using epidurals and regional nerve blocks all help to improve the outcome and comfort of our patients.

Our team of clinicians work together with allied specialists and referring veterinarians to provide the highest standard of care to our sickest patients. The ICU is staffed 24 hours a day with an expert doctor. Because we never close, we are able to provide round-the-clock monitoring and treatment of critically ill pets.

Two people in a veterinary clinic examine an X-ray while a beagle stands on a metal table nearby.
Call before coming by for an emergency!
(908) 236-4120
Emergency Information
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

A Criticalist is a board-certified veterinary specialist who leads the care of critically ill or injured pets. At Crown Veterinary Emergency, our ICU is overseen by a Criticalist certified by the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, supported by a dedicated team of specially trained veterinary nurses. Together, they provide expert, 24/7 care in a state-of-the-art ICU, ensuring each pet receives advanced, compassionate treatment when it matters most.

If your pet is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please proceed immediately to the nearest emergency clinic or call us at 908-236-4120. 

Signs Your Pet Needs Emergency Care:

  1. Unconsciousness, unresponsiveness, or collapse
  2. Difficulty breathing or blue/pale gums
  3. Major trauma (e.g., hit by car, falls, wounds) or excessive bleeding
  4. Seizures, tremors, or severe pain
  5. Sudden weakness, loss of balance, or inability to walk
  6. Difficulty urinating or giving birth
  7. Severe vomiting, diarrhea (especially with blood), or bloated abdomen
  8. Ingestion of toxic substances or medications
  9. Facial swelling, hives, or other allergic reactions

When you arrive at Crown Veterinary Emergency, please check in at reception. A trained staff member will assess your pet’s condition and may ask your permission to move them to the treatment area for further evaluation and stabilization. You’ll then meet with an emergency clinician who will review your pet’s history, perform a physical exam, and discuss next steps. Please be aware that wait times may vary depending on the number of critical cases being treated. We appreciate your patience and will keep you informed throughout your visit.

Veterinary critical care focuses on pets with life-threatening illnesses or injuries that require intensive treatment and rapid stabilization. Patients are admitted to a veterinary critical care unit (ICU) for continuous monitoring, diagnostics, and therapy under the supervision of a specialist critical care veterinarian.
A board-certified criticalist leads the ICU, supported by experienced emergency veterinarians and trained nursing staff. This team manages patient care, sets treatment protocols, and maintains communication with your primary veterinarian to coordinate ongoing support. Signs Your Pet Needs Emergency Care:
  1. Unconsciousness, unresponsiveness, or collapse
  2. Difficulty breathing or blue/pale gums
  3. Major trauma (e.g., hit by car, falls, wounds) or excessive bleeding
  4. Seizures, tremors, or severe pain
  5. Sudden weakness, loss of balance, or inability to walk
  6. Difficulty urinating or giving birth
  7. Severe vomiting, diarrhea (especially with blood), or bloated abdomen
  8. Ingestion of toxic substances or medications
  9. Facial swelling, hives, or other allergic reactions
Upon admission, the team performs triage and any necessary imaging or laboratory testing. They begin continuous monitoring of vital signs, pain levels, oxygen needs, and hydration status. A treatment plan is created and adjusted as your pet’s condition evolves.
Treatment options may include oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids and medications, blood pressure stabilization, nutritional support, and pain management. When needed, intensive therapy continues around the clock with frequent reassessment to ensure stability and progress.
Yes. The ICU is equipped with advanced monitoring systems, oxygen delivery equipment, and other life-support tools tailored to each patient’s condition. The veterinary team will explain all necessary procedures and their purposes.
Common conditions include severe trauma, shock, respiratory distress, major infections, post-surgical complications, toxin exposure, cardiac or renal crises, and uncontrolled pain. Any situation requiring rapid intervention and constant monitoring may need ICU-level care.
Yes. The hospital provides continuous 24-hour ICU coverage with a dedicated veterinary critical care team available day and night, including weekends and holidays.
Your pet’s comfort is a top priority. The team uses multiple pain-control methods, calm handling, and quiet environments to reduce stress while ensuring continuous monitoring for stability and well-being.
Yes. You will receive regular updates about your pet’s condition, test results, and treatment progress. The care team will keep you informed and involved in all decisions throughout your pet’s stay.
Discharge occurs once your pet’s vital signs are stable, medications are working effectively, and recovery can safely continue at home. You will receive clear discharge instructions and follow-up care recommendations before leaving.
Yes. The critical care team collaborates closely with specialists in surgery, internal medicine, cardiology, and other fields. They also communicate with your family veterinarian to ensure smooth transitions after discharge.
Seek immediate care if your pet collapses, struggles to breathe, experiences heavy bleeding, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, suspected toxin ingestion, seizures, major trauma, or any sudden worsening in condition. If you are unsure, call ahead so the team can prepare for your arrival.