Unfortunately, veterinary emergencies caused by illness, accidents and injuries can happen at any time. But how do you know what you should take your cat or dog in to your vet for emergency care? Here, our Torrance veterinary team share some of the reasons you may want to bring your companion in for emergency care.
When should I bring my pet to the emergency vet?
There are a number of different ways our furry friends can wind up injured or ill. Whether your pet has gotten into a fight with another animal, eats something they shouldn't have or becomes ill for seemingly no reason, it's difficult to know when to head to the emergency vet clinic and when to wait for your regular vet's office to open during their regular hours.
If your pet is experiencing any of the following it's time to head to your nearest emergency vet in the Torrance:
- Severe bleeding
- Gaping open wound
- Distended or bloated abdomen
- Unconscious or collapsed
- Clear signs of pain (crying, whimpering)
- Breathing difficulties
- Repeated spells of vomiting
- Recurring diarrhea
- Health rapidly becoming worse
- Suspected broken bone
- Trauma (ie: hit by a car, dog fight, fall)
- Unable to move or walk normally
- Seizures
- Swelling
- Extremely lethargic
- Ingested object (ie: fabric, string, or toys)
- Difficulties urinating
- Isn't eating or drinking
- Ingested toxin (ie: raisins, chocolate or batteries)
- Frothing at the mouth or drooling
- Painful or severely irritated eyes
- Bitten by snake
What steps should I take if I have a pet emergency?
If your pet is showing any of the conditions or symptoms we have listed above, it's time to take immediate action. Here are steps you should follow if your pet is experiencing a dog or cat emergency:
- Call your emergency veterinary hospital right away. If at all possible, you should let the veterinarians know that you are on your way.
- Follow the instructions given to you by the veterinary professional on the phone. When calling an emergency vet, they will be able to give your instructions on how to make your pet more comfortable or how to apply first aid until you arrive at the veterinary hospital.
- Remain calm and be extra cautious around your pet. When an animal is injured, they may react negatively towards people they are trying to help. Even if it's a pet you've loved for many years, be extra careful around them. When our pet's rate frightened and in pain, they can often react by lashing out or biting.
- Calmly bring your pet to the emergency animal clinic. Do not put yourself at risk. Safely bring your pet to the emergency veterinary hospital for care in their ER for pets.
- Be aware of the need to discuss the cost of your pet's emergency treatment. Your veterinarian will walk you through each step of diagnosis and treatment then explain the fees associated with each aspect of your pet's care. Speak to your vet honestly about your financial limitations. There may be more affordable alternatives to the recommended treatment.
How can I plan ahead for a cat or dog emergency?
While it's never easy to deal with pet emergencies, planning ahead can help to make these emergencies less stressful. Keep the phone number of your nearest vet clinic on hand and know the directions to get there quickly if you have to.
Nobody wants to worry about emergency vet bills while their pet is unwell. Budgeting ahead of time for emergencies, or investing in pet insurance can help you when the unexpected happens.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.