My pet needs urgent veterinary care, what should I do?
Often, clients call an emergency service veterinary provider and ask for advice to determine if the issue is an emergency.
Here are some common instances where we would advise for the pet to be seen as an emergency:
Bleeding:
In most cases where there is any bleeding, it is a good idea to see your pet. Sometimes, what can appear to be only a little blood can be severe or even life-threatening.
Discharges:
Vulval or other discharges are often a sign of infection. A vulval discharge, for example, can be indicative of a pyometra (infected uterus). This can be rapidly fatal.
Problems breathing:
Animals with problems breathing are best seen as an emergency. It is difficult to determine how severe a problem is without an examination. Cats, for example, can mask the severity of a breathing problem and may only show signs when the problem is severe.
Lethargy:
A low level of lethargy may not be concerning, but moderate to marked lethargy may indicate a concerning underlying cause, and we would recommend attending the clinic.
Fitting:
Call your vet straight away if your pet is fitting. If your pet has a fit, do not put your hand in their mouth. Wrapping them in a towel and bringing them to the surgery is needed. We recommend they finish fitting before being brought for examination. An isolated short first episode can often be monitored at home. If your pet is also sick in addition to the fitting, then it will probably need to be seen as an emergency.
Pain:
Any significant pain needs to be investigated. Vets will investigate the cause and can provide strong painkillers if needed.
Marked lameness:
Call the surgery to discuss all lameness. If your pet is in pain, then an emergency check-up will be recommended.
Collapse:
An emergency vet best sees any collapsed animal. Utilising a towel under the tummy for dogs to help raise the dog or wrapping a cat in a towel may help move them.
Vomiting:
This can be a sign of obstruction, severe gastroenteritis, or pancreatitis, amongst other causes. Pets can become rapidly dehydrated so an emergency check would be indicated.
Severe diarrhoea or vomiting:
This can cause dehydration, so a check-up is needed. Younger pets are particularly vulnerable to dehydration and low-blood sugar, so any diarrhoea or vomiting in a younger pet below six months should be examined quickly.
Problems giving birth:
Please call and discuss with the vet team first.
