Pet emergencies can happen, which is why Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital provides emergency veterinary care for pet parents in Surrey, British Columbia.
Common Pet Emergencies
- Bleeding: Bleeding can indicate an emergency. If the bleeding is severe or doesn’t stop within 5 minutes, this is considered an emergency. Bleeding from the nose, mouth, or rectum is also an indication of an emergency. Coughing up or peeing blood also requires prompt care.
- Breathing Difficulties: Breathing difficulties are also an emergency. This includes choking, constant coughing or gagging, or struggling to breathe.
- Heat Stroke: Heat stroke requires an immediate visit to the veterinarian. Heat stroke occurs when your pet is exposed to high temperatures, which raises their body temperature to an unsafe level. The symptoms include excessive panting, pale or tacky gums, vomiting, diarrhea, disorientation, loss of consciousness, or collapse.
- Toxin Ingestion: If you think your pet has eaten anything toxic, this is likely an emergency. Common toxins include candies or gum containing xylitol, rat poison, over-the-counter medications, household cleaners, and some plants. Toxins can be fatal. If your pet has severe vomiting, diarrhea, loss of consciousness, foaming at the mouth, or excessive panting, they may have consumed something toxic.
- Severe Pain: Severe pain is also an emergency. If your pet is whining or crying inconsolably, has extreme anxiety, or is unable to sit or lay down, they may be in severe pain. The vet will need to examine them to determine the cause of their pain.
Steps to Take in a Pet Emergency
- Stay Calm: The most important step to helping your pet in an emergency is to remain calm.
- Observe the Situation: Next, observe the situation. Does your pet have a broken bone? Are they bleeding? Are they vomiting often? Note everything you can about the situation and your pet’s condition.
- Take Any Needed Action: Take any action you can to help your pet. If they ingested something poisonous, give them plenty of water and make sure they can’t eat any more of the substance. If they are bleeding, apply pressure to the wound.
- Call the Vet: Now, you’ll need to call your vet. This will let them know you are coming, so they can be prepared to treat your pet. They may also have further instructions for you before you bring your pet in.
Now, you’ll simply need to follow your vet’s instructions. In most cases, they will ask that you bring your pet in immediately. In less serious situations, you may be asked to monitor them at home.
Emergency Care at Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital
If you need emergency pet care or an animal hospital in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, contact us at Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital. Emergencies don’t follow a schedule. That’s why we have an on-call veterinary team available so your pet can receive emergency treatment at any time. Call our team today at (604) 536-3131 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.