VCA Emergency Animal Hospital & Referral Center

Our Story

In our AAHA-accredited facility at VCA Emergency Animal Hospital & Referral Center in San Diego, we've worked closely with referring primary care veterinarians since 1972. We deliver the best medical care for pets and the best experience for pet owners.

Our specialists provide the most advanced veterinary medical equipment and techniques to ensure that our patients receive the best care available.

Hometown Care at VCA Emergency Animal Hospital & Referral Center

Since 1972, VCA Emergency Animal Hospital & Referral Center has been a trusted partner to San Diego’s primary care veterinarians, offering advanced specialty and emergency care for pets and their families.

Now located in our new, 26,000-square-foot, AAHA-accredited facility in Mission Valley, we are proud to continue delivering the highest level of veterinary care—combining cutting-edge medical technology with compassion and collaboration. Our expanded hospital includes advanced imaging capabilities, including both CT and MRI, enhancing our ability to diagnose and treat complex cases with precision.

Our hospital is home to a dedicated team of board-certified specialists, emergency clinicians, and highly trained support staff who work together to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. Whether your pet needs emergency care or specialty expertise, we’re here 24/7 to support both pet families and referring veterinarians.

Our Departments Include:


We’re proud to serve the San Diego community with integrity, expertise, and heartfelt care—because your pets deserve nothing less.

Accreditations & Affiliations
Opens in New Window
Affiliations Partner AAHA
American Animal Hospital Association

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) sets the standard for quality veterinary care for companion animals. As an accredited hospital, we voluntarily uphold the Association's high standards in 18 different areas and are routinely evaluated on over 900 different standards of veterinary care. Not all animal hospitals are accredited, and we are proud to be amongst only 12-15% of veterinary hospitals that hold this honor.

Opens in New Window
Feline Veterinary Medical Association logo
Feline Veterinary Medical Association

The Feline Veterinary Medical Association (FelineVMA), formerly the American Association of Feline Practitioners, represents veterinary professionals who are passionate about feline care. The association supports its members in advancing the health and welfare of cats. Recognized as a leader in feline medicine, FelineVMA helps practices create cat-friendly environments that reduce stress during veterinary visits.

Helpful Resources

Lionbridge provides over-the-phone and video interpretation services for non-English-speaking and American Sign Language (ASL) clients. In real time, veterinary providers can enlist an expert Lionbridge interpreter to facilitate a clear exchange of information between themselves and clients. Lionbridge’s on-demand, remote interpretation services enable effective and accurate communication with clients. This service empowers clients to be heard and spoken to in their own language, which in turn facilitates a deeper understanding of the care your pet needs.  

Learn more about Lionbridge’s interpretation services: https://www.lionbridge.com/content-transformation-services/interpretation-services/.

Visit Lionbridge