Pet Emergency

A pet emergency is any sudden illness or injury that could threaten your pet’s life, cause severe pain, or worsen quickly without treatment. This includes difficulty breathing, seizures, collapse, uncontrolled bleeding, trauma (such as being hit by a car), bloating, toxin ingestion, or inability to urinate. If you’re unsure, it’s always safest to call your veterinarian immediately.

If your pet is showing severe symptoms like trouble breathing, repeated vomiting, seizures, pale gums, extreme lethargy, or signs of intense pain, seek emergency care immediately. When in doubt, call your veterinarian — waiting can make some conditions much more serious.

Call your veterinarian right away. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinary professional. If possible, bring the packaging of the suspected toxin with you. Common household toxins include chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free gum), grapes, certain plants, medications, and household cleaners.

Occasional vomiting may not be an emergency. However, vomiting becomes urgent if it is persistent, contains blood, is accompanied by lethargy or abdominal pain, or occurs after possible toxin ingestion. If your pet cannot keep water down or is vomiting repeatedly within a short time, contact your vet immediately.

Signs of severe pain include whining or vocalizing, panting excessively, restlessness, hiding, aggression when touched, limping, a hunched posture, or unwillingness to move. Sudden behavioral changes can also indicate pain.

Stay calm. Move objects away to prevent injury and avoid putting your hands near your pet’s mouth. Time the seizure if possible. If the seizure lasts more than 2–3 minutes, or if multiple seizures occur close together, seek emergency care immediately.

Yes. Even if your pet appears normal, internal injuries may not be visible right away. Immediate evaluation is strongly recommended after any traumatic event.

Yes. A hard, swollen abdomen, restlessness, drooling, retching without producing vomit, or signs of distress may indicate gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), a life-threatening condition that requires immediate emergency treatment.

Diarrhea becomes urgent if it contains blood, is severe or frequent, is accompanied by vomiting or lethargy, or occurs in puppies, kittens, or senior pets. Dehydration can happen quickly.

Bring:

• A list of medications your pet takes

• Any known medical history

• Suspected toxin packaging (if applicable)

• Your pet’s vaccination records (if available)

If you have prior records, emailing them ahead of arrival can help expedite care.