Do you know what to do for your pet in an emergency situation? Some emergencies are life threatening and others are just a little scary and can be handled at home. These guidelines can help.

  • Make sure everyone is safe and out of harm’s way. This includes you as well as the pet. If you must move your pet, take precautions so that you aren’t bitten. Even the sweetest pet may bite when it is in pain. You can fashion a makeshift muzzle out of a belt or strip of cloth.
  • Assess the situation. Make a quick decision about whether you need to call for help. You may need another hand, or some expert advice. Be sure that you have your veterinarian’s phone number pre-programmed into your home and cell phones or easy to find in an emergency. Also include contact information for a nearby emergency clinic or two if your veterinarian refers emergency calls at night.
  • If the situation is serious, assess his or her vital signs including heart rate, respirations, and temperature. We recommend that you already know what is normal in a healthy pet by reviewing one of the many quality articles online  or by talking to your vet at your pet’s next appointment.
  • If your pet is bleeding, make an attempt to stop the bleeding by applying pressure or a tourniquet if needed. These measures are not a permanent solution, but will minimize bleeding until you can get help.
  • If your adult pet is experiencing mild vomiting or diarrhea, you may choose to withhold food (not water) for 12-24 hours and then re-introduce a bland diet.
  • Don’t be tempted to medicate your pet at home. Some human medications are toxic to pets and others may limit your vet’s options as to what they can do to help your pet.
  • It is helpful to carry a small first-aid kit with you in the car and keep one at home that includes tweezers, sterile saline such as contact lens solution, gauze rolls, gauze sponges, antibiotic ointment, latex gloves, a spare leash, and a thermometer. These are good for everyday, minor emergencies and for unexpected, serious health issues.
  • Many cases of mild digestive upset, minor limping, small scrapes, or itchiness can wait for your regular vet.
  • If your pet is acting abnormally, not eating or drinking, seems in pain, or is not going to the bathroom, you should seek emergency care.
  • If your pet is bleeding, has obvious broken bones, abnormal vital signs, is not breathing normally, or is having vomiting or diarrhea, you should not wait.
  • In general it is better to be safe than sorry.
  • A key decision is whether to seek immediate emergency care or wait to be seen by your veterinarian. That can be a difficult decision to make in the moment. When in doubt make a phone call. We’re here for you and will do our best to answer your questions and help you make those difficult decisions.