Emergency Veterinary Care

Emergencies happen to our pets them same way they happen to us. If you are concerned about your pet, do not hesitate to call your vet right away or go into their office. You know your pet better than anyone. If it seems like your pet is acting strangely or differently, it could be a sign that something is seriously wrong.

The majority of veterinarians offer emergency services, either in-house or through a referral to another hospital or clinic. It is a good idea to talk to your veterinarian about the emergency veterinary care he or she offers for:

• Viruses
• Bites and wounds
• Broken or fractured bones
• Parasites (ticks in particular can spread disease, such as lime disease)
• Other health problems or complications
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Accelerated or decelerated heart beat
  • Walking with a limp
  • Blood in stool
  • Blood around the eyes, nose, or mouth
  • Vomiting for more than 24 hours
  • Seizures
  • Difficulty going to the bathroom
  • Heatstroke
  • Your pet is unconscious and will not wake up
  • You think your pet ingested something toxic
  • Your pet cannot stand up or has collapsed and cannot get back up
  • Your pet cannot walk straight
  • Your pet appears to be in intense pain
  • Your pet's abdomen appears swollen and is sensitive to touch

If your pet is experiencing a real emergency you will want to bring them in right away. Do not wait to make an appointment. If it's late at night and your vet's office is not open, call the local 24-hour emergency clinic and ask to speak to a veterinarian. He or she might be able to diagnose your pet's condition over the phone, and can tell you the best way to transport your pet if you'd rather bring your pet into the hospital or clinic.

Find an Emergency Veterinarian – Before You Need One

Not all veterinarians offer emergency services. Ask your vet at your next appointment whether or not they offer emergency care so you can be prepared in the event of an emergency. If your veterinarian does not handle emergencies they should be able to refer to a local emergency animal hospital. It is always a good idea to have the number and address of an emergency veterinarian on hand, just in case an urgent situation arises. You may even want to drive over to the facility at some point to make sure you know the fastest and easiest way to get there.

Find a veterinarian in your area today.