Like most moms, a trip to the ER is part of life with kids. I've have spent many an evening or early morning holding a sick child waiting to be seen by a physician. I've come to the conclusion that when all is going well, someone is bound to end up taking a road trip to the local hospital.

What I don't plan for is that someone being the family pet. So what happens at 8 pm on a Sunday night when you find yourself needing an Emergence Room trip for your four legged-friend?

Well, that was what I was faced with this weekend. You see our newest addition, Buddy,was playing with our other dog, Guinness, and somehow ended up with a 3 inch gash down the side of his rib crib. After a quick look and short deliberation, my husband and I realized that the injury required professional attention. I called our vet and was referred to the Small Animal Emergency Services located in the Town and Country Shopping Center behind Babcock furniture. You're probably wondering if a Pet ER actually exists and I will tell you that not only do we have one, but they were actually very busy!

We arrived a few minutes after 8 pm and found ourselves in a waiting room with several other injured pets. The staff was helpful, friendly and directed us to a patient room as soon as one became available. After a quick assessment by the vet tech, we were seen by Dr. Turner who discussed our options for treatment. We were even given a estimate for treatment so we would know how much the visit would cost us.

Although the office visit for Buddy was twice the cost of a trip to the vet during the day (which I expect for an after-hours vet trip), the rest of the services (stitches, sedation, medication) where similar to a regular office visit. In fact, we'll return in two weeks to have Buddy's staples removed for free.

To make a long story short, Buddy received wonderful treatment and even received a complimentary nail trimming. I have to say, Dr. Turner and her staff offer quality care for each and every pet that comes through their door. So, take the time to write their contact info in your phonebook next to your other emergency numbers. You never know when you'll need it.

Small Animal Emergency Services offers after hours care from 6 pm - 8 am and all weekend. They are located at 1335 N. Sandhills Blvd. Tel (910) 944-0405.