Pet emergencies can be scary…always be prepared about what to do if your pet has a veterinary emergency.
When should you seek emergency care for your pet?
- Bleeding – Bleeding from any part of the body, including blood in the urine or stool.
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea – Several repeated episodes in a short period, or intermittently over a period of days or weeks.
- Convulsions or fainting – Violent shaking of the head or body, uncontrolled spasms, or loss of consciousness.
- Lethargy – Decreased energy and playfulness, decreased exercise tolerance.
- Pain – Limping, tense, crying when touched.
- Eye problems – Redness, squinting, rubbing eyes, discharge, a foreign object in the eye.
- Weight loss – Gradual unexplained weight loss over weeks or months, or dramatic recent weight loss.
- Changes in appetite – Decreased or increased appetite, refusing food or water.
- Changes In urination – Urinating large amounts, urinating frequently, straining to urinate, or urinating small amounts.
- Breathing problems – Shortness of breath, extending head and neck to breathe, wheezing.
- Abnormal color of gums – Gums should be pink. Gums that are dark red, white, pale, or blue need medical attention.
What do I do in a pet emergency?
- Stay Calm!
- Call the Veterinary Emergency Clinic directly and let them know you are coming.
- Know directions on how to get there safely.
- Be prepared with helpful information about your pet:
- Species/Breed/Weight/Age
- Details of entering the complaint
- Details of any changes in pet’s lifestyle, how long it has been going on
- List of medications your pet is currently taking
- If your pet consumed poison/household chemical or human medication – bring the container of the product with you to the hospital.
- Be cautious! Pets may be scared and can bite when ill or injured!