Emergency Veterinary Services: What to Do When Your Pet Needs Immediate Care

When your pet is in distress, knowing what to do in the heat of the moment can make all the difference. Just like humans, pets can experience medical emergencies that require swift and informed action. But how can you tell when it’s time to rush to the vet? What should you do before you get there? And how do you ensure your pet gets the best possible care?

How to Identify a Pet Emergency: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Recognizing a pet emergency isn’t always as simple as it sounds. Sometimes, symptoms can be subtle or seem like minor discomfort. However, certain signs should never be ignored.

Common Pet Emergencies: Injuries, Poisoning, and Sudden Illness

Some of the most common pet emergencies include:

• Severe bleeding that doesn’t stop within five minutes
• Difficulty breathing (rapid breathing, gasping, or choking)
• Unconsciousness or seizures
• Sudden collapse or inability to stand
• Poison ingestion, including household chemicals, human medications, chocolate, or toxic plants
• Heatstroke, especially in dogs left in hot cars or exercising in high temperatures
• Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than 24 hours or contains blood
• Eye injuries or sudden blindness
• Bloating and retching without producing vomit (a possible sign of gastric torsion in dogs, which is life-threatening)
• Trauma, such as being hit by a car or falling from a height
• Allergic reactions, including swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing

If your pet displays any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate—seek emergency vet services immediately.

Steps to Take in a Pet Emergency Situation

When faced with a pet emergency, staying calm is key. Here’s what you should do:

1. Assess the Situation – Is your pet breathing? Is it conscious? Check for bleeding, swelling, or other abnormalities.
2. Call an Emergency Vet – Call a 24/7 veterinary clinic and describe the situation. They can provide immediate advice and prepare for your arrival.
3. Safely Transport Your Pet – If your pet is in pain, it may react aggressively. Use a carrier, towel, or blanket to safely move them.
4. Perform First Aid If Necessary – Stop bleeding with clean gauze, perform CPR if your pet isn’t breathing, or remove any visible toxins if safe to do so.
5. Stay Calm and Reassure Your Pet – Your pet will likely be scared. Speak in a soothing voice and avoid unnecessary handling.

Creating a Pet Emergency Kit for Quick Response

Just like a human first-aid kit, a pet emergency kit can be a lifesaver. Here’s what to include:

• Gauze, bandages, and antiseptic wipes
• Hydrogen peroxide (to induce vomiting if directed by a vet)
• Digital thermometer
• Tweezers (for removing splinters or ticks)
• A muzzle (injured pets may bite)
• Pet-safe pain relievers (only as prescribed by a vet)
• Contact details for your vet and a nearby 24/7 emergency vet clinic

Having these supplies on hand can help stabilize your pet before professional help is available.

Finding Reliable Emergency Vet Services Near You

Knowing where to go ahead of time can save precious minutes in a crisis. Not all veterinary clinics offer emergency services, so preparation is key.

Why Establishing a Relationship with an Emergency Vet is Crucial

Building a relationship with an emergency vet before an actual crisis strikes can make all the difference. Here’s why:

• Familiarity with your pet’s medical history – If your pet has pre-existing conditions, your vet will already be aware.
• Faster service – In emergencies, an established relationship means your vet may prioritize your pet.
• Less stress for your pet – A clinic your pet is familiar with can make a scary situation slightly more manageable.

To find a reliable emergency vet, look for clinics with 24/7 availability, experienced staff, and excellent reviews from pet owners.

Trust Rolling Plains Veterinary Corporation for Your Emergency Vet Services

Emergencies happen, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Rolling Plains Veterinary Corporation, we provide expert emergency vet services for pets big and small—whether you have a loyal canine companion, a curious feline, or even livestock in need of urgent care.

Our experienced veterinary team is ready to help when your pet needs immediate attention. Don’t wait for an emergency to strike—save our contact information today and have peace of mind knowing your pet’s health is in expert hands.

Reach out to us to learn more about our emergency vet services and how we can support you and your pet in times of need.

Categorised in: Veterinary

This post was written by Dr. Marc Phillipot