Since spring 2023, the emergency department for small animals at the University Animal Hospital in Ultuna, Uppsala, had been closed on weekends, according to official sources. However, since the end of March this year, the small animal department has been open for emergency visits around the clock, all days of the week, the hospital said. The extended opening hours are partly due to an increase in veterinary students from 100 to 150, officials confirmed.
m. , according to the hospital. For emergency visits, one should call beforehand, the hospital advised.
The department may temporarily limit intake to ensure patient safety and a good work environment, officials noted. The specific date in March 2024 when the extended hours began has not been disclosed, and the number of emergency visits since then remains unconfirmed. Criteria for temporarily limiting intake to maintain patient safety have not been detailed.
The impact of the weekend closure since spring 2023 on animal owners in terms of travel distances or costs is unclear, and plans to expand services beyond emergency visits and scheduled appointments have not been announced.