Veterinary clinics in Netherlands overwhelmed as pet emergencies spike
Veterinary emergency clinics across the Netherlands are under intense pressure due to an unprecedented surge in urgent animal care cases, according to the Royal Dutch Society for Veterinary Medicine (KNMvD).
Clinics offering 24/7 emergency care for pets are operating at full capacity and are struggling to manage the continuous influx of animals, NOS reports. The growing demand is forcing some pet owners to travel farther or face longer wait times for treatment.
“It’s always somewhat busier in the summer because of seasonal complaints like overheating or dogs getting sick from blue-green algae,” veterinarian Elwin van Oldenborgh of the KNMvD told NOS. “But the peak we’re seeing now is truly exceptional.”
Lisanne Bolt, an emergency veterinarian at AniCura MCD in Amsterdam, said their staff is working beyond capacity. “We’re reaching our limits,” she told NOS. “Our teams are doing everything they can to help. But we’re also asking for understanding—the pressure is high and our capacity is not unlimited.”
The University Clinic for Companion Animals (Universiteitskliniek voor Gezelschapsdieren) in Utrecht is facing similar challenges. “Our veterinarians and veterinary technicians are working overtime and postponing their vacations until the fall to ensure care for animals and their owners,” veterinarian Joris Robben told NOS.
Don’t rush in—call first
Van Oldenborgh warned that many people bring their pets to emergency clinics with problems that their own veterinarians could have treated. “That’s the message we want to get across: if in doubt, call your regular vet first. Don’t wait until they’re closed and head straight to an emergency clinic.”
Outside regular hours, veterinarians urge pet owners to call the emergency clinic before arriving. A phone consultation often helps determine whether immediate treatment is needed.
“Often we can reassure people and advise them to contact their own vet the next day,” Miyuki Yokoi, veterinarian at Evidensia Dierenziekenhuis Hart van Brabant in Waalwijk, told NOS. “That way, emergency services remain available for real emergencies.”
Pet owners can also take preventive steps to avoid emergencies, Van Oldenborgh noted. “Make sure your dog doesn’t snatch something from the barbecue, and be careful with heat—both indoors and outside.”
Veterinarians are also warning about grass seeds, or grasaren, which can easily stick to animal fur. “Check your dog’s paws if you’ve been walking in areas with these grass seeds,” they advised.
