Emergency & On-Farm Care

Immediate Support When Your Horse Needs It Most

Equine emergencies can happen without warning, and having fast access to experienced veterinary care can make all the difference. Homestead Veterinary Hospital provides reliable emergency response and on-farm care for horses throughout St. Clair, Franklin County, Washington, Union, Sullivan, and nearby Missouri areas. Our veterinarians are equipped with the mobile tools, medical supplies, and expertise required to address urgent situations quickly and effectively, helping support the best possible outcome for your horse.

 

24/7 Large-Animal Emergency Availability

Our team is available around the clock for large-animal emergencies. Whether your horse is facing colic, severe lameness, trauma, respiratory distress, or an acute medical crisis, we are prepared to respond. We understand the stress and urgency of equine emergencies, and our veterinarians work quickly to assess the situation, stabilize the horse, and begin treatment immediately when possible. Owners can call our emergency line at any time for prompt assistance and guidance.

 

Common Equine Emergencies

Equine emergencies come in many forms, and early intervention can significantly improve recovery. Some of the most common issues we evaluate include:

• Colic or signs of abdominal pain
• Sudden lameness or non-weight-bearing injuries
• Wounds, lacerations, and trauma
• Respiratory distress or difficulty breathing
• Neurologic changes or unexpected collapse
• Fever, severe lethargy, or systemic illness

Owners are encouraged to contact us immediately if they notice any sudden changes in behavior, movement, or overall condition.

 

Mobile Care Delivered to Your Barn

Our emergency and routine farm calls allow us to examine, diagnose, and treat horses in the comfort of their home environment. This minimizes stress and ensures we can evaluate the horse where the injury or illness first occurred. Portable diagnostic tools—including digital X-ray, ultrasound, and laboratory equipment—allow us to gather essential information on-site, supporting quick decision-making and appropriate treatment.

 

Coordination with Referral Hospitals

In cases requiring advanced surgical care or specialized hospitalization, we help coordinate referral transport seamlessly. Our veterinarians work closely with trusted equine hospitals to ensure your horse receives the right level of care, and we continue to support the case throughout the referral process.

 

Guidance for After-Hours Concerns

Even when a situation may not require immediate travel, owners can contact our after-hours line for advice. Our team will help determine whether your horse needs urgent evaluation, monitoring at home, or a scheduled visit the following day. Clear guidance helps owners act quickly and confidently during stressful situations.

 

Dedicated to Your Horse’s Safety and Wellbeing

Every second matters during an emergency, and Homestead Veterinary Hospital is committed to providing dependable, compassionate care when your horse needs it most. Whether responding to urgent calls or offering routine on-farm support, our veterinarians are here to help protect your horse’s health, comfort, and long-term wellbeing.