It’s late and cold outside but something is not right with your pet. The symptoms are causing you concern but you’re not if they warrant emergency services. Can this wait for regular care on Monday? Would waiting make it worse?
These guidelines can help you know when to seek out emergency veterinary care and when you may be able to wait. And, if you aren’t sure, we prefer safe to waiting too long.
- Vomiting/diarrhea: If these things occur more than once or are accompanied by blood or any signs of illness such as fever, lethargy, or anorexia, it is better to have your pet checked out. Dehydration can occur quickly, especially in small or young animals.
- Wounds: Anything that is bleeding, has a discharge, or deeper than a superficial scrape should be checked out immediately. This includes punctures and burns.
- Urine troubles: Blood in the urine or difficulty/straining to urinate is an emergency that should be addressed as soon as possible.
- Fever: A rectal temperature that is greater than 103oF warrants investigation.
- Not eating: Anorexia that persists for greater than 24 hours should not be ignored.
- Breathing problems: A pet that is panting, coughing, or otherwise seems short of breath should be looked at immediately.
- Eye troubles: Any sign of an eye problem such as squinting, tearing, or redness should not wait, as eye issues can turn serious at the drop of a hat.
- Sudden lameness: Not putting weight on a limb or a new lameness can indicate a serious problem.
- Trauma: Don’t wait after a pet is hit by a car or falls. Even if it seems fine, there may be internal injuries that don’t show up until it is too late.
- Ingestion of a foreign body or toxin: If you are not sure if it might be a problem, don’t hesitate to call and ask.
- Seizures: If it is your pet’s first seizure or if it is having back to back seizures or they are lasting longer than 3 minutes, your pet should be seen.
- Trouble delivering puppies/kittens: If your pet has been in active labor for longer than an hour without progress or if it has been greater than 3 hours since the last baby was delivered, your pet may need help.
- “Just not right”: When in doubt, call. Signs of a problem can include (but are not limited to) a bloated abdomen, collapsing, weakness or lethargy, pale gums, pain, or a change in behavior.
Don’t hesitate to call if you’re concerned about the well-being of your pet and think you may need help. We can answer your questions and take care of your pet when needed.
Please let us know if you have concerns with your pet, no matter the day or time. After-hours emergencies: 406-245-4772
