Veterinary Emergencies

Steps to Take In A Pet Emergency

If you are experiencing a veterinary emergency, follow these steps.

Remain Calm

Remain calm and be extra careful around your pet. When an animal is in pain they often react negatively towards anyone trying to help and could bite or scratch.

Call Ahead If Possible

Call one of the emergency animal hospitals listed below to explain the situation and let them know you are on your way.

Follow Instructions Provided

When you call to let the emergency pet hospital know you are on your way, instructions may be provided to help you apply first aid or otherwise make your pet as comfortable. Follow these instructions carefully.

Bring Your Pet In For Care

Do not put yourself at risk! Safely bring your pet to the emergency veterinarian so they can receive care.

What Situations Require Emergency Care?

The following situations are examples of emergencies that require immediate care:

• Unconsciousness
• Heat stress or heatstroke
• Choking, difficulty breathing, or continuous coughing/gagging
• Fractured bones or severe lameness
• Seizures and/or staggering
• Bleeding from nose, mouth, rectum, or blood in the urine
• Inability to urinate or pass feces, or pain associated with urinating or passing feces
• Severe vomiting or diarrhea; 2+ episodes in 24-hours
• Injuries to the eye(s)
• Your pet has ingested something poisonous (such as antifreeze, xylitol, chocolate, rodent poison, etc.)
• Obvious signs of pain or extreme anxiety
• Refusal to drink for 24 hours or more
• Severe bleeding or bleeding that doesn't stop

Emergency Veterinary Clinics

If your pet is experiencing an emergency, we recommend the following emergency veterinary clinics.