Ready North / Is it a pet emergency? What to do first
Is it a pet emergency? What to do first
Quick answerIf your pet has trouble breathing, collapses, has a seizure, may have eaten a toxin, is bleeding heavily, cannot urinate, or seems in severe pain, treat it as an emergency and call a veterinarian now. When you are not sure, call: the clinic can triage by phone.
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Go now or call now
- Trouble breathing, blue, gray or very pale gums
- Collapse, seizure, or inability to stand
- Known or possible poison, including antifreeze, medications or chocolate
- Heavy bleeding, major trauma, hit by a car, even if the pet seems fine
- A swollen, hard belly with retching or unproductive vomiting
- Straining to urinate, or no urine
- Severe pain, crying out, or aggression when touched
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhea, especially in a puppy, kitten or older pet
What to do on the way
- Call ahead so the team is ready, and ask if there is anything to do before you arrive.
- Keep your pet calm, warm and as still as possible.
- Bring your medication list, any product or plant packaging, and your pet’s records.
- Have someone else drive if you can.
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Not a complete list
This is general education, not a complete list and not a diagnosis. If you are worried, your pet is in distress, or it is outside clinic hours, call an emergency veterinary hospital.
Info to have ready
- Species, breed, age, weight
- What happened, and when
- Medications, supplements and allergies
- Regular vet’s name and phone
- Photo of the pet and any suspected toxin
Frequently asked questions
When should I take my pet to the emergency vet?
For trouble breathing, collapse, seizure, suspected poisoning, major trauma, heavy bleeding, inability to urinate, or severe pain. If unsure, call a vet.
Sources
- ASPCA Poison Control https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
- Pet Poison Helpline https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/
- American Red Cross: Pet disaster preparedness https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/pet-disaster-preparedness.html
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