24-hour emergency vets in Chicago

Updated 16 Oct 2026

Most veterinary practices in Chicago operate during standard business hours. Four hospitals in our catalogue accept walk-ins and urgent cases 24 hours a day, 365 days a year:

Call the hospital before leaving home so staff can prepare triage or direct you to an alternate facility if their critical care unit is at capacity.

What does an emergency vet visit cost in Chicago?

An initial exam fee covers the medical assessment before emergency diagnostics, bloodwork, or surgery. Ask about intake fees when you call ahead.

Your pet bit someone or was bitten

Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control requires animal bites to humans or companion animals to be reported to local police within 24 hours. Police file a Cook County Bite Report with Animal and Rabies Control.

The biting animal must undergo a mandatory observation period. It cannot be sold, moved, or put down during observation, and must not receive a rabies shot until the final day of the observation period. Schedule an examination with a veterinary hospital or shelter promptly to remain compliant. For questions regarding bites, Animal and Rabies Control operates an assistance line at (708) 974-6140.

Encounters with bats and wildlife

Bats are the primary carrier of rabies in Cook County, with an average of approximately 25 rabid bats identified in the county each year. Raccoons, skunks, and foxes can also transmit the virus. Never handle a sick or grounded bat; report it immediately to local animal control or police. Keep your pet's rabies vaccination current to prevent transmission.

All vets in Chicago

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