New St. Matthews veterinary emergency room will allow owners to stay with pets overnight

A new 24/7 veterinary emergency room has opened in Louisville’s St. Matthews area, and it is offering an option that is unusual for emergency care, owners can stay with their pets during treatment, including overnight, according to WLKY.

The station reported that the facility is operated by Matthew Animal Hospital and that it is designed to provide urgent care around the clock. WLKY said the new emergency room is open daily and is intended to reduce the time pets spend waiting for assistance when owners need immediate veterinary attention.

Under the hospital’s approach described by WLKY, pet owners can remain with their animals during the emergency process. The policy covers overnight visits, meaning families who arrive after hours can stay with their pets while veterinary staff provide care.

The change is aimed at comfort and continuity for both animals and their owners, WLKY reported. In emergency situations, families may be facing stress and uncertainty, and the ability to remain present can help reduce disruption during treatment, according to the reporting.

WLKY’s report did not indicate that the hospital’s overnight stay option changes medical decision-making or that it replaces any veterinary procedures. Instead, it focused on the logistics of who can be present during treatment and how the emergency room is structured to operate as a 24-hour service.

The new emergency room opening comes at a time when pet owners may increasingly expect after-hours care options, especially for conditions that cannot wait until normal business hours. For local residents, the policy described by WLKY may affect how families plan transport and timing when emergencies arise.

As of the hospital’s opening, pet owners who want to take advantage of the overnight presence option are expected to coordinate with the facility at the time of arrival, with the exact terms and limitations to be confirmed directly with staff. The next practical step for families is to verify hours of operation and visit guidelines before an emergency occurs, given that policies can vary by facility and medical context.