FAQ: What does it mean when I have a STAT appointment?

STAT appointments move urgent cases to the top of the schedule, giving pets in crisis the answers they need as quickly and safely as possible.

When your veterinarian says your pet needs a STAT appointment, it can feel overwhelming. STAT comes from the Latin word statim, which means “immediately.” In veterinary medicine, it signals that a case is urgent and requires priority access to imaging.

Why STAT appointments matter

STAT cases often involve pets in crisis—such as those with neurological signs, sudden loss of mobility, or severe trauma. In these situations, advanced imaging provides answers that guide life-saving treatment decisions. That’s why STAT cases move to the top of the schedule, even if it means adjusting the day’s workflow.

How long does it take?

A STAT appointment usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. The exact timing depends on factors such as the complexity of the scan and how the patient responds to anesthesia.

What you can expect as an owner

If your pet is scheduled for a STAT appointment, you’ll receive tailored drop-off and pickup instructions. Throughout the visit, our team will keep you updated, and we’ll call as soon as your pet is in recovery. Like all patients, STAT cases are never discharged until they’re fully awake, stable, and safe to go home.

Urgent but never rushed

Prioritizing STAT appointments doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means directing resources toward pets that need answers most urgently, while still maintaining the same level of safety and precision that every patient receives.