This page is made possible by Critical Care and Veterinary Services of Sarasota providing 24/7 care to Sarasota pets. 941-929-1818.
Quick Guide to Veterinary Emergencies
If your pet is suffering from any of these conditions, an immediate trip to the emergency clinic may be required. This is not a comprehensive list, and this information is no substitute for veterinary care. You should also contact your veterinarian and/or emergency care clinic.
It may be necessary to muzzle your pet to prevent being bitten. Your veterinarian and/or emergency clinic can guide you.
POISONING
Call your vet or emergency clinic right away, and you may consult the Animal Poison Control Center if you suspect contact with or ingestion of a toxin – 888-426-4435.
SEIZURING
Ice pack the head and neck and keep pet away from objects that it might get hurt against. Call the vet. If the seizure lasts more than 1-2 minutes, go to the vet or emergency clinic. Talk to your pet and try to keep them aware and conscious.
PARALYSIS
If a dog or cat loses the use of its limbs, is walking hunched up, or has wobbly or weak legs, it should be seen by a vet or emergency clinician as soon as possible. If the problem is a ruptured disc, quick treatment is vital.
FRACTURE
Splint the leg as best you can or strap the limb to a board, use a bandage to hold the splint in place. Veterinary care is required.
BLEEDING
Use pressure to control the bleeding. If a leg is bleeding severely, apply a tourniquet above the wound. Rush to the vet or emergency clinic.
CHOKING
Try to pull out object. If your pet collapses, use a quick firm pressure on the chest to push the object out. For cats or small dogs, hang them upside down from their back legs and firmly tap their chest to help the object drop.
HEAT STROKE
Do not ice your pet down. Use a hose to water down the animal slowly until its coat is saturated with lukewarm or room temperature water. Too rapid changes in temperature can be dangerous. Get to vet as soon as possible.