PEC-Pet Emergency Hospital & Diagnostics Center storefront at Golden Plaza, Yuen Long

Yuen Long vet and 24-hour animal hospital: emergency, wards, imaging

No appointment needed for emergencies · CT, X‑ray and ultrasound on site · Golden Plaza, Yuen Long

Do not wait

Signs your pet needs emergency care now

If you see any of these, come straight in and call us on the way. Every minute matters.

  • Difficulty breathing, open-mouth breathing in cats, blue or pale gums
  • Collapse, unresponsiveness, or a seizure lasting more than 2 minutes
  • Swollen, hard abdomen with retching (possible bloat / GDV)
  • Straining to urinate with little or no urine, especially male cats
  • Ate something toxic: chocolate, xylitol, lilies, rat bait, human medicines
  • Hit by a vehicle, fall from height, deep wounds or heavy bleeding
  • Repeated vomiting or diarrhoea with blood, or unable to keep water down
  • Heatstroke: heavy panting, drooling, body temperature above 40°C
What we do

Emergency hospital and diagnostics under one roof

Two things a general clinic often has to refer out. We keep both in-house, so your pet is treated without delay.

Hospitalisation & isolation

Separate cat and dog wards plus an isolation ward, with round-the-clock nursing for pets who need more than a day visit.

  • Cat ward and dog ward
  • Isolation ward for infectious cases
  • Visits arranged with the ward

Imaging & lab tests

CT, X-ray, ultrasound, blood tests and microscopy on site, with images and reports shared with your regular vet.

  • CT scan and X-ray
  • Ultrasound
  • Blood tests & microscopy

In-house laboratory

Blood chemistry, haematology, urinalysis and rapid tests on site, so treatment decisions are not held up.

Surgery

Neutering, wound repair, foreign-body removal and other soft-tissue surgery in our operating theatre, with full anaesthetic monitoring.

Referral & second opinion

Referred by your vet, or want another view? We work alongside your regular clinic, not instead of it.

Exotic animals

Rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, hedgehogs, birds, reptiles, fish and other exotic pets. Emergency and routine care by clinicians experienced with small mammals, avian and reptile patients.

  • Rabbit GI stasis and dental disease
  • Avian and reptile emergencies
  • Imaging sized for small patients

Dental & oral care

Dental scaling and oral treatment. Bad breath, red gums or slower eating are reasons to book a check.

Pet DNA testing

A cheek swab or small blood sample is analysed for inherited disease risks, breed make-up and drug-sensitivity genes. Knowing the risks before symptoms appear makes prevention and treatment earlier and more precise.

  • Inherited disease screening: heart, kidney, eye, blood and nervous system
  • Breed composition, adult weight and temperament tendencies
  • MDR1 drug-sensitivity test to avoid reactions to anaesthetics and parasite drugs
Facilities & equipment

What we have in the hospital, and what it is for

A plain guide to our equipment so you know which test matches which problem, and can tell us what you need when you book.

X-ray machineFirst-line imaging of bones, chest and abdomen.
Ultrasound scannerAbdominal organs and soft tissue, arranged as needed.
CT scannerCross-sectional imaging of the head, spine, chest and abdomen, and complex fractures.
EndoscopeA slim camera passed through the mouth, nose or gut to view the oesophagus, stomach, intestines and airway directly, take biopsies and retrieve swallowed objects without open surgery.
DNA laboratoryIn-house processing of cheek swabs and blood samples for inherited disease risk, breed composition and MDR1 drug-sensitivity analysis, feeding into the preventive care plan.
Blood testingCommon blood markers and health monitoring, on the vet's advice.
MicroscopeBasic sample checks: skin, ear canal, urine sediment.
Dental scalingOral care and dental procedures after a vet's assessment.
Oxygen therapyStable support for pets that need help breathing.
Operating theatreNeutering and general surgical procedures.
Cat ward and dog wardSeparate wards so patients rest and are observed without disturbing each other.
Isolation wardSeparate care and infection control for suspected contagious cases.

Imaging and testing

Imaging and lab work help the vet find the direction faster, especially when symptoms are not typical or several causes are possible, so treatment is not guesswork. We have CT, X-ray, ultrasound and blood-testing equipment on site to complete the picture from the consultation and physical exam.

Dental and oral care

Mouth problems are the ones owners most often miss. Bad breath, red or swollen gums, slower eating or a preference for soft food are reasons to book a check. We have dental scaling equipment and arrange oral care and dental procedures after the vet's assessment.

Hospitalisation and isolation

When a pet needs post-operative observation, fluids, medication monitoring or short-term close care, admission makes things safer and lets the team track changes. We have a cat ward, a dog ward and an isolation ward, so patients are separated by need and infection risk is managed.

Surgery and supportive care

Surgery usually means pre-operative assessment, anaesthetic monitoring, after-care and a follow-up visit, so a clear process and a properly equipped space matter. We have an operating theatre and provide oxygen therapy and other support for different clinical situations and recovery needs.

Before you come in

  • If you think imaging or a blood test may be needed, describe the symptoms, how long they have lasted, and any changes in eating, drinking or toileting when you book.
  • For surgery or anything involving anaesthesia, follow the vet's or staff's instructions on whether your pet should fast.
  • If there is an infection risk, such as ongoing diarrhoea or suspected ringworm, call before you arrive so we can make suitable arrangements.
When you arrive

What happens in an emergency visit

Triage

A nurse assesses your pet within minutes of arrival. Critical cases go straight through.

Stabilise

Oxygen, pain relief and fluids come first. We start before the paperwork is done.

Diagnose

Imaging and lab tests on site, with a clear explanation of what we found.

Treat

We agree a plan and an estimate with you before proceeding, and update you at each step.

Hand over

Discharge notes and images go to your regular vet for follow-up care.

Our vets

Meet our veterinary team

View our veterinarians’ names, qualifications and registration numbers. Please contact the hospital for availability and appointment arrangements.

Dr YANAI Norikata

楊井伯謙 醫生

Veterinary Surgeon

BVSc(Hons) GradCertVetStud MRCVS

Reg. No.: R000581

Dr Chan Wing Yu, Cherry

陳穎瑜 醫生

Veterinary Surgeon

BVM (magna cum laude)

Reg. No.: R002088

Dr Ip Ning Fung, Nathan

葉寧風 醫生

Veterinary Surgeon

BVM (magna cum laude)

Reg. No.: R002073

For non-emergency bookings and veterinarian availability, please call or WhatsApp us. For emergency assistance, call 2126 7440.

Online shop

Prescription diets and pet care, collected or delivered

Order online and we confirm by WhatsApp. Collect at the hospital, or choose delivery within Hong Kong.

Go to the online shop

Non-emergency visits

Request an appointment

For imaging, consultations and follow-ups. We will confirm your time by phone or WhatsApp.

Emergency? Do not use this form. Call 2126 7440 now or come straight to the hospital. We are open 24 hours.
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Exotic pets are any pets other than cats and dogs: rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, hedgehogs, birds, turtles, snakes, lizards and fish. We treat all of them. Emergencies can walk in; for routine visits please book ahead so we can schedule a vet experienced with that animal.

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Please choose a date.
Your request is emailed straight to the hospital. We will call or WhatsApp you to confirm the time.

We have received your request

Thank you. We will call or WhatsApp you shortly to confirm the time. If it is urgent, please call 2126 7440.

Pet health guide

Guides for pet owners, written by our team

Neutering, vaccines, parasites, common symptoms and what to do in an emergency, explained in plain language.

Emergency

24-hour animal hospital in Yuen Long: when to come, what happens on arrival, how to get here

When something goes wrong at night, what matters is knowing who is open, how to get there and what will happen. Here it is in one place. We are open 24 hours, and Yuen Long, Tin Shui Wai and Tuen Mun are 15 to 25 minutes away by car.

Exotic pets

Exotic pet vet in Yuen Long: rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, hedgehogs, birds, reptiles and fish

Exotic pets are nothing like cats and dogs: they hide illness deeply, deteriorate fast, and need species-specific anaesthesia and drugs. We provide emergency and routine care for exotic animals here in Yuen Long.

Prevention

Pet DNA testing: benefits, how it works and what to do with the results

One swab and a few minutes can reveal your pet's inborn health risks. This article explains what a DNA test detects, which pets benefit most, how to read the report, and how it fits with yearly health checks.

Emergency

Urinary blockage in cats: a male cat that cannot pee is an emergency

This is one of the commonest fatal emergencies in cats, and many owners mistake it for constipation. If your male cat keeps going to the tray and nothing comes out, do not wait. Come now.

Emergency

My dog ate chocolate: toxic amounts, signs and when to rush in

Chocolate theft is the commonest poisoning we see in the emergency room. The amount and the type decide how dangerous it is, and the earlier we act, the simpler the treatment.

Practical

How vet fees work: consultation, emergency, hospitalisation and surgery costs explained

The question owners ask most is "roughly how much?" The answer depends on what your pet needs, but how a bill is built up can be explained clearly. Here is what each item is, why they differ, and how we quote.

See all articles

Questions & answers

Common questions from pet owners

Straight answers about emergencies, visits, tests, dental care, surgery, hospitalisation, the online shop and how to find us.

Emergencies

Do I need an appointment for an emergency?

No. Come straight in, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you can, call 2126 7440 on the way so the team can prepare for your pet's condition.

What counts as an emergency?

Difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, a swollen hard belly with retching, straining to urinate without passing urine, eating something toxic, road accidents or falls, heavy bleeding, repeated vomiting or bloody diarrhoea, and heatstroke. If you are unsure, call us. We would rather see a pet that turns out to be fine than miss one that is not.

Should I make my pet vomit at home after it ate something?

No. Home remedies such as salt or hydrogen peroxide can burn the stomach or cause aspiration, and some toxins do more damage coming back up. Call us immediately with the packaging; inducing vomiting is safe only within a short window and only for certain substances, and we do it with proper medication.

My pet may have eaten rat poison.

Come in immediately with the packaging. Most rat baits stop blood clotting, and bleeding starts days later, so a pet that looks fine today can still be in danger. Early treatment is simple; late treatment may need transfusions. Never wait for symptoms.

How much does an emergency visit cost?

Fees depend on what your pet needs. We stabilise first, then explain the findings and agree a written estimate with you before further treatment. Payment is accepted by cash, card, FPS and bank transfer.

Visiting the hospital

Can I stay with my pet?

During triage and stabilisation you will be asked to wait so the team can work quickly. Once your pet is stable we bring you through, and we arrange visits for hospitalised patients.

What should I bring?

Any medication your pet takes, previous test results or X-rays, a referral letter from your vet if you have one, and the packaging of anything your pet may have eaten. Bring cats and small pets in a secure carrier.

Do you treat animals other than dogs and cats?

Yes. Besides dogs and cats we treat rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, hedgehogs, birds, reptiles, fish and other exotic animals. Emergencies can come straight in; for routine visits please book so we can arrange the right clinician.

Which languages does the team speak?

Cantonese, English and Mandarin. The website is available in Traditional Chinese, Japanese and English.

Are you open during a typhoon or black rainstorm?

The emergency service stays open 24 hours regardless of weather. Under Typhoon Signal No. 8 or above or a Black Rainstorm Warning, scheduled consultations, imaging and surgery are postponed and resume about two hours after the signal is lowered; we will call or WhatsApp you to rebook. Please travel only if it is safe to do so.

How do I get a repeat prescription or prescription food?

Send us a WhatsApp with your pet's name, the medication or diet, the quantity, a photo of the last label, and a short update on appetite, drinking, vomiting or diarrhoea, at least three days before you run out. Repeat medication is only dispensed for pets under our care, and long-term medication needs a periodic re-examination.

Do you accept pet insurance, and can I pay in instalments?

Yes to insurance from any insurer: you settle the bill and claim back, and we provide the itemised invoice and clinical notes the insurer needs. Check your policy's exclusions before elective procedures. For larger bills ask at admission about payment options; a written estimate and a deposit are required for hospitalised cases.

Tests, dental and surgery

What tests can you do on site?

CT, X-ray, ultrasound, blood tests and microscopy (skin, ear and urine samples). Results from X-ray, ultrasound and most blood tests are available the same visit; CT needs sedation or anaesthesia and is scheduled in advance; some samples are sent to an external laboratory.

Does my pet need to fast before a test or surgery?

For anything involving sedation or anaesthesia, food is usually withheld for 8 to 12 hours beforehand; water is fine. Rabbits and other small herbivores should not be fasted. Our staff will give you exact instructions when you book.

Do you do dental scaling?

Yes. Dental scaling is done under general anaesthesia after a pre-anaesthetic check, so that we can clean below the gum line and treat any diseased teeth. Bad breath, red gums, slower eating or a preference for soft food are reasons to book a check.

Do you do neutering?

Yes, for dogs, cats and rabbits. We book a pre-operative check, and most patients go home the same day with a recovery collar and after-care instructions.

How do I care for my pet after surgery?

Keep the recovery collar on at all times until the wound check; no licking, no bathing and no running or jumping for about 10 to 14 days. Check the incision daily for swelling, discharge or opened stitches. Offer a small meal that evening, give medication as labelled, and come back for the wound check and suture removal we schedule.

My unspayed female dog is drinking a lot, off her food and has a discharge.

This can be pyometra, an infection of the womb that occurs a few weeks after a heat and progresses to sepsis and kidney failure. It is an emergency that usually needs surgery the same day. Spaying prevents it entirely.

How do I get my pet's results?

You get a verbal explanation on the day. Written reports and image files are sent to you and, if you wish, to your regular vet.

Hospitalisation

What are the wards like, and can I visit?

We have a separate cat ward and dog ward so patients rest without disturbing each other, plus an isolation ward for suspected infectious cases. Visits are arranged with the ward team.

My pet may be contagious. What should I do?

Call before you arrive. Cases such as ongoing diarrhoea, suspected parvovirus, cat flu or ringworm are taken straight to the isolation ward through a separate route so other patients are protected.

Dogs: common symptoms

My dog vomited once. Do I need to see a vet?

If your dog vomited once, is bright and drinking, withhold food for 6 to 12 hours, offer small amounts of water, then feed a bland meal. Come in if vomiting is repeated (more than twice in 24 hours), contains blood, comes with lethargy or a swollen belly, follows eating something unusual, or if the dog is a puppy or elderly.

My dog has diarrhoea. When is it serious?

Mild diarrhoea for a day in an otherwise normal adult dog can be managed with a bland diet and water. See a vet the same day if it is bloody or black, if there is vomiting as well, if the dog is not drinking or is weak, or if it is an unvaccinated puppy (parvovirus risk).

My dog is not eating. How long can I wait?

A healthy adult dog that skips one day of food but is otherwise normal can be watched. Puppies, toy breeds and seniors should be seen within 12 hours. Any loss of appetite together with vomiting, lethargy, drinking a lot or pain needs a vet visit.

My dog is coughing. What could it be?

A honking cough after boarding or the dog park is often kennel cough, which usually clears in one to two weeks. Coughing at night or after exercise in older or small dogs can point to heart disease or collapsing trachea. Come in if the cough lasts more than a week, or immediately if there is difficulty breathing, blue gums or collapse.

My dog is limping. Is it an emergency?

If the dog still puts weight on the leg and there is no swelling, rest for 24 to 48 hours and watch. Come in the same day if the leg is held up completely, is swollen, hangs at an odd angle, or the limp follows a fall or accident. Sudden hind-leg lameness in adult dogs is often a cruciate ligament injury.

My dog keeps scratching and losing fur.

Itchy skin is most often fleas, mites, ringworm, food or environmental allergy, or an ear or skin infection. We check with a skin scrape, tape test or ear swab and treat the cause. Do not apply human creams or oils; they can make it worse and are often licked off.

My dog ate chocolate, grapes or something with xylitol.

Chocolate (especially dark), grapes and raisins, xylitol (in sugar-free gum and some peanut butters), onions and garlic, and human painkillers are all dangerous. Call us immediately and bring the packaging so we can calculate the dose. The earlier we treat, the better the outcome.

How do I recognise and handle heatstroke in Hong Kong?

Heavy panting, thick drool, bright red gums, vomiting, wobbliness or collapse after exercise or time in a hot car or flat. Flat-faced breeds are at the highest risk. Move to shade, wet the coat with tepid (not ice-cold) water, put a fan on, and come in immediately. Heatstroke damages organs even after the dog looks better.

My dog's belly is swollen and it keeps retching but nothing comes up.

This can be gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), where the stomach twists. It is most common in large, deep-chested breeds and is fatal within hours without surgery. Do not wait: call and come in now.

My dog had a seizure. What should I do?

Keep the dog away from stairs and furniture, do not hold the tongue or put anything in the mouth, and time the seizure. A first seizure should be checked the same day. A seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, or several in a row, is an emergency: come in immediately.

Cats: common symptoms

My cat has not eaten for a day.

Cats that stop eating can develop fatty liver disease within days, so a cat that refuses food for 24 hours should be seen, and sooner if it is also vomiting, hiding or lethargic. Do not wait for it to 'get hungry'.

Is it a hairball or is my cat vomiting?

An occasional tube-shaped hairball with no other signs is normal. Repeated vomiting, vomiting food or fluid, weight loss, loss of appetite or diarrhoea are not hairballs and need a check for food intolerance, foreign body, kidney, thyroid or bowel disease.

My cat keeps going to the litter tray and cries but passes little or no urine.

In male cats this can be a urethral blockage, which becomes fatal within 24 to 48 hours. Straining, crying, licking the genitals, small drops of urine or blood, vomiting and hiding are the signs. Come in immediately, at any hour.

My cat is breathing with its mouth open or panting.

Cats do not pant like dogs. Open-mouth breathing, fast belly breathing, or breathing with the neck stretched out means asthma, heart disease, fluid in the chest or severe stress, and is an emergency. Keep the cat calm in a carrier and come in now.

My older cat is drinking more, urinating more and losing weight.

These are the classic signs of chronic kidney disease, diabetes or an overactive thyroid, all common in cats over 10. A blood test and urine test tell them apart, and all three can be managed well when caught early.

My cat is hiding and behaving differently.

Cats hide pain and illness. Hiding, a hunched posture, less grooming, aggression when touched or a change in litter habits are often the only signs. If it lasts more than a day, or the cat is also not eating, book a check.

Which household things are poisonous to cats?

Lilies (every part, even pollen on the fur) cause kidney failure; paracetamol and ibuprofen are fatal to cats; flea products meant for dogs, essential oils, antifreeze and some houseplants are also dangerous. Any contact with lilies or human medication is an emergency, even if the cat looks fine.

My cat is sneezing with runny eyes and nose.

Cat flu (viral upper respiratory infection) is common, especially in kittens and multi-cat homes. Keep the cat warm and fed with strong-smelling food. See a vet if it stops eating, has thick yellow discharge, breathes with difficulty or the eyes are half closed.

Rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters and hedgehogs

My rabbit has stopped eating or has not passed droppings for several hours.

This is gut stasis and it is the most common rabbit emergency. A rabbit that has not eaten or passed droppings for 8 to 12 hours needs treatment that day; waiting overnight can be fatal. Bring the rabbit in with some of its usual hay.

My rabbit's head is tilted to one side.

Head tilt is usually an inner ear infection or the parasite E. cuniculi. Both are treatable but need to be seen the same day, before the rabbit stops eating or injures itself rolling.

My rabbit is drooling and eating less.

Rabbit teeth grow continuously. Drooling, dropping food, preferring soft food or a wet chin usually mean overgrown or spurred teeth that need trimming under anaesthesia. A diet that is mostly hay keeps teeth worn down.

Do rabbits need vaccinations in Hong Kong?

Rabbits are not routinely vaccinated in Hong Kong the way dogs and cats are; ask us about the current availability of vaccines against rabbit haemorrhagic disease. Annual check-ups, neutering (female rabbits have a very high rate of uterine cancer) and dental checks are the most important preventive care.

What are emergencies for guinea pigs, hamsters and chinchillas?

Not eating for more than 12 hours, a swollen belly, diarrhoea (in hamsters, 'wet tail'), laboured breathing, a head tilt, or being unable to stand. Small animals deteriorate very quickly, so come in the same day and keep them warm on the way.

Should I neuter my rabbit, and when?

Yes for most rabbits. Females are usually spayed from 4 to 6 months to prevent uterine cancer; males from 4 months to reduce spraying and fighting. Neutered pairs also bond more easily.

What should I watch for in a chinchilla?

Chinchillas overheat above about 24°C, so a hot, humid Hong Kong flat without air-conditioning is dangerous: panting, red ears and lethargy mean heatstroke. Other common problems are overgrown teeth (drooling, weight loss), fur rings on males, and constipation or diarrhoea from diet changes. Give unlimited hay, a dust bath several times a week, and see us the same day if a chinchilla stops eating.

My hamster has watery diarrhoea, a lump, or bulging cheeks that do not empty.

Watery diarrhoea with a wet, soiled rear end is 'wet tail', which can kill a hamster within a day or two and needs treatment now. Lumps are common in older hamsters and should be checked early while they are small. A cheek pouch that stays full or turns inside out is impacted or prolapsed and needs a vet to clear it.

My hedgehog stays rolled up, is wobbly, or has flaky skin and is losing quills.

A hedgehog that will not unroll, is very quiet or feels cool to the touch may be attempting to hibernate because the room is under about 22°C; this is dangerous, so warm it gradually and come in. Flaky skin with quill loss is usually mites or ringworm. A wobbly, weak gait can be wobbly hedgehog syndrome or a spine problem. All three need a vet visit; bring the hedgehog in a warm carrier.

Why do guinea pigs need vitamin C, and what are their warning signs?

Guinea pigs cannot make their own vitamin C. Without daily fresh vegetables or a supplement they develop scurvy: swollen joints, reluctance to move, rough coat and bleeding gums. Warning signs that need a same-day visit are not eating, drooling, a crusty nose or eyes, laboured breathing, or a limp.

Birds

My bird is fluffed up, sitting at the bottom of the cage and not eating.

Birds hide illness until they are very sick, so a fluffed, quiet bird with a bobbing tail or sitting on the cage floor is an emergency. Keep it warm (around 28 to 30°C) and quiet in a covered carrier and come in the same day.

My bird is plucking its own feathers.

Feather plucking has medical causes (skin or feather infection, parasites, liver disease, allergy, pain) and behavioural ones (boredom, anxiety, poor sleep, hormones). We rule out the medical causes first with an examination and tests, then work on diet, sleep (10 to 12 hours of dark), foraging toys and routine.

Is a seed-only diet bad for my parrot or budgie?

Yes. Seeds are high in fat and low in calcium, vitamin A and protein, and lead to obesity, liver disease and weak feathers. Convert gradually to a pelleted diet with fresh vegetables and a little fruit. We can guide the change; sudden switches can cause a bird to stop eating.

My hen is straining, fluffed up and sitting on the cage floor. Could she be egg-bound?

Yes. Egg binding is common in small birds on calcium-poor diets and is an emergency: a bird can die within hours. Keep her warm and quiet and come in immediately. Do not try to press the egg out.

What household things are dangerous for birds?

Fumes from overheated non-stick (PTFE) pans, self-cleaning ovens, aerosols, scented candles and smoke can kill a bird within minutes. Avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, onion, salt and fruit pips are toxic; so are lead and zinc from old cage wire, curtain weights and costume jewellery. Keep birds out of the kitchen and come in at once if there is sudden breathing difficulty.

Reptiles: turtles, snakes and lizards

My reptile is not eating.

First check the enclosure: temperature gradient, UVB lamp age and humidity are the usual causes. Some species slow down seasonally. Come in if there is weight loss, swelling, mouth sores, retained shed around toes or eyes, or if a female is straining and cannot lay eggs (egg binding is an emergency).

My tortoise or turtle has a soft or misshapen shell.

A soft shell, a pyramided shell or soft jaws usually mean metabolic bone disease from too little UVB light and calcium. It is treatable and preventable with correct lighting, diet and supplements; book a check and bring details of the setup.

My snake has not eaten for weeks.

Healthy adult snakes often refuse food for several weeks around shedding, breeding season or in cooler months, and that is normal if body condition holds. Come in if the snake is losing weight, has retained shed, wheezing, mouth redness or discharge, or if a young snake refuses more than two feeds in a row.

My snake's shed came off in pieces, or I can see tiny dots moving on it.

Patchy shedding usually means humidity is too low; provide a humid hide and a soaking tub and never pull skin off, especially over the eyes. Tiny moving dots around the eyes and under scales are snake mites, which spread quickly and carry disease. We treat the snake and advise on cleaning the enclosure.

My snake vomited its meal a day or two after eating.

Regurgitation is usually caused by handling too soon after a meal, an enclosure that is too cold to digest, prey that is too large, or parasites. Leave the snake undisturbed, check temperatures, and book a visit if it happens more than once or the snake looks thin.

My bearded dragon or gecko is shaky, weak or its jaw looks soft.

Tremors, weak limbs, a rubbery jaw or bent limbs point to metabolic bone disease from too little UVB light, calcium or vitamin D3. It is painful and can lead to fractures, but is treatable when caught early. Bring the lizard in and tell us the lamp type and age, the diet and the supplements used.

My lizard has stopped passing droppings and its belly is swollen.

Impaction from swallowed sand or gravel, dehydration, or a female carrying eggs can all cause this. Warm soaks may help mild cases, but a lizard that has not passed droppings for a week, is straining, or has a hard swollen belly needs an X-ray and treatment.

My gecko dropped its tail. Is that an emergency?

No. Tail loss is a natural defence and the tail regrows over a few months, though it will look different. Keep the enclosure clean, use paper towel instead of loose substrate until the wound seals, and come in if the stump becomes red, swollen or sticky.

My turtle's eyes are swollen shut and it is not eating; or its shell has soft, smelly patches.

Swollen eyes with loss of appetite are usually vitamin A deficiency or a respiratory infection from water that is too cold or dirty. Soft, pitted or foul-smelling patches on the shell are shell rot, an infection that spreads under the shell. Both need treatment; bring the turtle in and tell us the water temperature, filter and basking setup.

Can reptiles pass diseases to people?

Reptiles commonly carry Salmonella without being ill. Wash hands after handling or cleaning the tank, keep reptiles and their water away from the kitchen and bathroom sinks, and do not let young children, pregnant women or immune-compromised people handle them without supervision.

Fish

Do you see fish, and how do I bring one in?

Yes. Before you travel, send us a short video of the fish and a photo of the tank on WhatsApp; many problems are water-quality problems we can help with straight away. If a visit is needed, bring the fish in a bag or bucket of its own tank water, plus a separate jar of tank water for testing, and keep it out of direct sun on the way.

My fish is gasping at the surface, floating, or lying at the bottom.

This is most often poor water quality: ammonia or nitrite from an over-stocked or newly set up tank, low oxygen in hot weather, or a sudden pH or temperature change. Do a 25 to 50% water change with dechlorinated water at the same temperature, increase aeration, stop feeding for a day, and test the water. If the fish does not improve within a few hours, contact us.

My fish has white spots like grains of salt.

White spot (ich) is a parasite that spreads through the whole tank. It is treatable with a proprietary medication and by slowly raising the temperature, but the cycle must be completed and carbon removed from the filter during treatment. New fish without quarantine are the usual source.

My fish's fins are ragged, or its body is swollen with scales sticking out.

Ragged, fraying fins with a white edge are fin rot, a bacterial infection that follows poor water or fin nipping. A swollen body with scales raised like a pine cone is dropsy, which signals organ failure and carries a poor outlook. Both need clean water and treatment, and a water test to find the cause.

How should I quarantine new fish?

Keep new fish in a separate cycled tank for two to four weeks before adding them to the main tank, watch for spots, clamped fins, flashing against objects or loss of appetite, and never share nets or water between tanks. This is the single best way to keep parasites out of an established aquarium.

How often should I change the water and test it?

For most home aquariums, change 20 to 30% of the water weekly with dechlorinated water at the same temperature, and test ammonia, nitrite, nitrate and pH weekly while a tank is new and monthly once stable. Feed only what is eaten in two minutes; overfeeding is the commonest cause of bad water.

Pet DNA testing and preventive medicine

What is a pet DNA test and how is it done?

We collect a few cells from the inside of the cheek with a swab, or take a small blood sample, and our in-house DNA laboratory analyses hundreds of gene markers linked to inherited diseases, breed and drug reactions. It takes minutes, needs no anaesthetic or fasting, and puppies and kittens can be tested. Fee: HK$4,888.

What are the benefits of DNA testing my pet?

First, you learn about inherited disease risks early, such as dilated cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease, progressive retinal atrophy or clotting disorders, so monitoring, diet and lifestyle changes can start before symptoms. Second, you learn the MDR1 drug-sensitivity status, which avoids severe reactions to certain parasite drugs, anti-diarrhoeals and anaesthetics. Third, mixed-breed pets get their breed make-up, which predicts adult size, temperament and the diseases common in those breeds. Fourth, if you plan to breed, you avoid passing recessive diseases to the next generation.

How long do results take, and are they accurate?

Reports usually take two to four weeks. Detection of the gene markers is highly accurate, but carrying a risk gene does not mean the disease will definitely develop, and a clear result does not guarantee it never will, because many diseases also depend on environment and lifestyle. A vet explains the report and recommends a monitoring plan.

Can mixed-breed or unknown-breed dogs be tested?

Yes, and they benefit most. A mixed dog's breed make-up often differs from its looks; the report lists the percentage of each breed, which helps us predict adult size, exercise needs and the diseases common in those breeds, and build a more tailored prevention plan.

Can cats be DNA tested?

Yes. Feline panels cover polycystic kidney disease (common in Persians and British Shorthairs), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (common in Maine Coons and Ragdolls), blood type and many other inherited conditions, and can analyse breed make-up. Blood type is especially useful if a transfusion is ever needed.

My pet has a risk gene. What happens next?

The vet arranges monitoring suited to the risk: heart ultrasound and ECG for cardiac risks, regular blood and urine tests for kidney risks, eye examinations for retinal conditions, plus advice on diet, weight and exercise. Many inherited diseases are far easier to control when found early, and many pets live normal lives for years.

Can a DNA test replace a health check?

No. A DNA test is done once and tells you about inborn risks; physical examination, blood, urine and imaging tests show your pet's health right now. The two complement each other. Ideally the DNA report becomes part of your pet's preventive care plan, making each annual check more targeted.

What should a preventive care plan for a pet include?

Young pets: core vaccines, deworming, flea and tick prevention, heartworm prevention, neutering and a DNA test. Adults: an annual examination with vaccine boosters, monthly parasite prevention, a yearly dental assessment and weight management. Seniors (dogs from 7, cats from 10): a check every six months with blood, urine and blood pressure tests, plus heart ultrasound or eye examinations depending on the DNA report and breed risks. Prevention usually costs far less than treating advanced disease.

Vaccination, licence and parasite control

When do puppies and kittens get vaccinated?

Puppies start core vaccines at 6 to 8 weeks and repeat every 3 to 4 weeks until 16 weeks. Kittens start at 8 weeks with doses at 12 and 16 weeks. In Hong Kong, dogs must have a rabies vaccination, microchip and licence by 5 months of age. Boosters follow yearly or as advised for each vaccine.

What are the dog licence and microchip rules in Hong Kong?

Under Hong Kong law every dog over 5 months must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies and licensed with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. The licence is valid for three years and must be renewed with a rabies booster. We can microchip, vaccinate and issue the licence in one visit.

How often should I treat for fleas, ticks and worms?

In Hong Kong's climate, flea and tick prevention is needed every month all year round; ticks carry babesiosis and ehrlichiosis, which are common here. Deworm puppies and kittens monthly until 6 months, then adults every 3 months. Ask us which product suits your pet's weight and lifestyle.

Does my dog need heartworm prevention?

Yes. Heartworm is spread by mosquitoes and is present in Hong Kong. A monthly preventive (tablet, chew or spot-on) protects dogs and cats; dogs should have a blood test before starting and yearly after that.

How often should my pet have a health check?

Once a year for healthy adults, including a weight check, dental check and vaccination review. From 7 years in dogs and 10 in cats, every 6 months with blood and urine tests, because kidney, thyroid and heart problems are easier to manage when found early.

At what age should my dog or cat be neutered?

Most cats and small to medium dogs are neutered at 5 to 6 months. For large-breed dogs we may advise waiting until 12 to 18 months for joint development. Neutering prevents unwanted litters, womb infection and some cancers, and reduces roaming and spraying.

I am taking my pet overseas. What documents are needed?

Most countries require a microchip, current rabies vaccination, a health certificate issued shortly before travel and an export permit from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department; some also need a rabies blood test months in advance. We can carry out the examinations and vaccinations required; contact us as early as possible.

My cat never goes outside. Does it still need vaccines?

Yes. Panleukopenia and cat-flu viruses travel on shoes, clothing and hands, and any stay at a cattery, groomer or hospital requires current vaccination. Indoor cats usually need the core vaccine only; feline leukaemia is added for cats that go out or live with cats of unknown status.

We missed a booster. Do we have to start the course again, and what should I watch for after a vaccine?

Usually not; we adjust the schedule, and only very long gaps need a two-dose restart. After any vaccine, stay 20 to 30 minutes in case of an immediate reaction, then watch for 48 hours for facial swelling, vomiting, hives or marked lethargy and call us if they appear. Avoid bathing and hard exercise for a few days.

Preventing illness: everyday care

How do I prevent dental disease?

Brush your pet's teeth daily, or at least three times a week, with a pet toothpaste (never human toothpaste). Dental diets, chews and water additives help but do not replace brushing. Have the mouth checked at every visit and book a scale and polish when tartar builds up; waiting until there is bad breath usually means disease is already under the gum line.

My pet is overweight. Why does it matter and what should I do?

Excess weight shortens life and makes arthritis, diabetes, breathing and heart problems more likely. You should feel the ribs easily and see a waist from above. Measure food with a cup or scale, cut treats to under 10% of daily calories, add daily walks or play, and let us set a target weight and a diet plan; weight loss should be gradual, especially in cats.

Which human foods should never be given to pets?

Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onion, garlic and chives, xylitol (sugar-free products), alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts, cooked bones, raw dough, and fatty leftovers, which can trigger pancreatitis. Lilies and human painkillers are deadly for cats. Safe treats in small amounts include plain cooked chicken, carrot and apple without seeds.

How can I prevent urinary problems in my cat?

Encourage drinking with several water bowls or a fountain, feed wet food or add water to meals, provide one litter tray per cat plus one extra, clean them daily, keep the cat at a healthy weight, and reduce stress with hiding places and routine. Male cats and overweight indoor cats are at highest risk; any straining is an emergency.

How do I protect my puppy from parvovirus, distemper and kennel cough?

Complete the vaccine course on time and keep the puppy off public ground and away from unknown dogs until one to two weeks after the final dose. Carry it outside for socialisation in the meantime. Kennel cough vaccine is advised before boarding, grooming or daycare. Wash hands and shoes after contact with other dogs while the puppy is unprotected.

How do I protect my cat from feline leukaemia, FIV and FIP?

Test any new cat before introducing it, keep cats indoors or in a secure catio, neuter to reduce fighting, and vaccinate against feline leukaemia if the cat goes out or lives with cats of unknown status. FIP arises from a common coronavirus; clean litter trays daily, avoid overcrowding and reduce stress. There is no FIV vaccine in Hong Kong; prevention is avoiding bites.

We hike and camp with our dog. How do we avoid ticks and tick fever?

Use a monthly tick preventive all year, keep to paths and away from long grass, and check the whole coat, ears, between toes and under the collar after every walk. Remove any tick with a tick hook or tweezers close to the skin, pulling straight out, and note the date. Fever, pale gums, dark urine or lethargy in the following two to three weeks needs a blood test.

Can my pet pass diseases to my family?

A few can: roundworm and hookworm, ringworm, cat-scratch disease, Salmonella from reptiles and raw food, and leptospirosis from rat urine. Regular deworming, flea control, washing hands after handling pets and litter, not feeding raw meat, and keeping litter trays away from food areas make the risk very small. Pregnant women should let someone else clean the litter tray.

What does everyday preventive care look like for a rabbit?

Unlimited fresh hay (about 80% of the diet), a small measured amount of pellets, leafy greens daily, and no sugary treats. Check droppings and appetite every day, brush during moults, keep the rear end clean and dry in summer to prevent flystrike, keep the room under 26°C, and book a check-up with a dental exam every year.

How do I prevent heatstroke in Hong Kong's summer?

Walk early in the morning or after dark, test the pavement with your hand, carry water, never leave a pet in a car or on a balcony, and keep flat-faced breeds, overweight and elderly pets in air-conditioned rooms on hot days. Rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas overheat above about 26°C; use cooling tiles and fans. Panting that does not settle within 10 minutes of rest is a warning sign.

Senior pets and end of life

What changes should I watch for in an older pet?

Drinking or urinating more, weight loss or gain, new lumps, stiffness or reluctance to jump, bad breath, cloudy eyes, restlessness at night, or confusion. Many of these are treatable, so book a senior check every 6 months.

I found a lump on my pet.

Any new lump should be checked. A quick needle sample in the consultation room tells us whether it is a harmless fatty lump or something that should be removed. Note where it is and whether it is growing; do not wait to see if it goes away.

How can I tell if my pet is in pain, and can I give human painkillers?

Signs of pain include hiding, going off food, limping, panting, a hunched back, flinching or aggression when touched, and reduced grooming in cats. Never give human painkillers: paracetamol and ibuprofen are toxic to cats and dogs. We prescribe safe pain relief for animals.

How do I know when it is time, and what happens at the end?

We help you assess quality of life: appetite, mobility, comfort, and whether there are more good days than bad. Euthanasia is a gentle injection under sedation; you are welcome to stay with your pet, and we can advise on cremation arrangements. You can call us to talk it through at any time.

Shop, location and hours

Can I buy prescription food and medication online?

Yes, through the online shop on this site. Items marked "Prescription" are dispensed only for patients under our care or with a valid prescription; we check before confirming. Collect at the hospital for free, or choose delivery within Hong Kong.

Where are you and how do I get there?

Shops 33-40, G/F, Golden Plaza, 28 Shui Che Kwun Street, Yuen Long, New Territories, Hong Kong. Light Rail Tai Tong Road stop is a 3-minute walk; MTR Long Ping Station Exit C is about 10 minutes on foot. Emergency care is open 24 hours; imaging, dental and consultations are by appointment.

Getting here

How to reach the hospital

We are on the ground floor of Golden Plaza, 28 Shui Che Kwun Street, in Yuen Long town centre. In an emergency, call ahead and we will meet you at the door with a stretcher.

MTR (Tuen Ma Line)

Long Ping Station, Exit C: about a 10-minute walk. Yuen Long Station: about 15 minutes on foot, or take the Light Rail one stop to Tai Tong Road.

Long Ping Exit C · 10 min walk

Light Rail

Tai Tong Road stop is about a 3-minute walk. Routes 610, 614, 615 and 761P stop there. From Yuen Long, Tin Shui Wai or Tuen Mun this is the easiest way.

Tai Tong Road stop · 3 min walk

Bus & minibus

Buses along Castle Peak Road (Yuen Long section) such as 68A, 68X, 276P and 968: alight at Tai Tong Road or Kuk Ting Street, then walk 3 minutes. Green minibuses to Yuen Long town centre also stop nearby.

Alight at Tai Tong Road

Taxi & car

Tell the driver "Golden Plaza, Shui Che Kwun Street, Yuen Long" (元朗水車館街萬金中心). Drop-off is at the street entrance. Public car parks are nearby; street parking is limited.

Drop-off at the door

Walking routes, step by step

Two illustrated routes: from Long Ping MTR Station and from the Tai Tong Road Light Rail stop. Each opens in Google Maps for live turn-by-turn directions.

Long Yip St On Lok Rd Tai Cheung St Tung Tai St Shui Che Kwun St Kuk Ting St Castle Peak Rd (Yuen Long) Garden LRT Tai Tong Road stop Long Ping Station Exit C Golden Plaza · 28 Shui Che Kwun St 1 2 3 4 N

MTR From Long Ping Station

About 10 minutes on foot · 750 m

  1. Leave by Exit C and walk south down Long Yip Street.
  2. At On Lok Road turn left, then take Tai Cheung Street, which bends towards the old town centre. You pass a small garden on your right.
  3. At the junction with Tung Tai Street, turn right into Shui Che Kwun Street.
  4. Golden Plaza (萬金中心) is on this street. The hospital is on the ground floor, shops 33-40.
Open in Google Maps
Castle Peak Rd (Yuen Long) Tai Tong Rd Kuk Ting St Shui Che Kwun St Tung Tai St Tai Cheung St Playground ← Hong Lok Rd stop Yuen Long terminus → Tai Tong Road stop 610 · 614 · 615 · 761P Golden Plaza · 28 Shui Che Kwun St 1 2 3 4 N

Light Rail From Tai Tong Road stop

About 3 minutes on foot · 200 m

  1. Get off at Tai Tong Road stop (routes 610, 614, 615, 761P). Cross to the north side of Castle Peak Road if needed.
  2. Walk north up Kuk Ting Street, away from Castle Peak Road.
  3. Take the first right into Shui Che Kwun Street. The playground is on your left.
  4. Golden Plaza (萬金中心) is ahead. The hospital is on the ground floor, shops 33-40.
Open in Google Maps

The drawings are schematic and not to scale. Use the Google Maps button for live directions.

Bringing a cat or small pet?Use a secure carrier. Small animals may travel on the MTR and Light Rail in a closed carrier.
Large or injured dog?Take a taxi or pet taxi. Keep the animal flat on a blanket or board and call us so a nurse can meet you.
Late at night?The Light Rail and MTR stop around 00:30. After that, a taxi is the reliable option. We are open regardless.
Find us

Golden Plaza, Yuen Long

Ground-floor shops on Shui Che Kwun Street. Bring your pet straight to the door for emergencies.

Address
Shops 33-40, G/F, Golden Plaza, 28 Shui Che Kwun Street, Yuen Long, New Territories, Hong Kong
Telephone
2126 7440 · 2126 7441
Fax
2126 7443
WhatsApp
9176 1130
Website
pecvet.com
Hours
Emergency 24 hours. Imaging and consultations by appointment.
Transport
Light Rail Tai Tong Road stop, 3 min walk. MTR Long Ping Station Exit C, 10 min walk.
Emergency