A word on dealing with a Pet Emergency (Guest Post)

10 Signs you’re Dealing with a Pet Emergency 

Most pet owners are aware that their beloved furry companions don’t always get sick or injured during the vet’s regular office hours. Accidents or illness can sometimes occur at an inconvenient time, which leaves owners with the tough decision of whether the situation requires emergency veterinary care or not.

To be best prepared for emergency situations, it’s a good idea to have a well-equipped pet first-aid kit in your home. The kit should include bandages, hydrogen peroxide, a thermometer and possibly some OTC pet meds like aspirin for dogs (do not give your pet human medications). 

Some minor injuries or illnesses may be able to be cared for and monitored at home until your regular vet’s office is open, but the following symptoms warrant a trip to an emergency veterinary clinic:

1. Your pet is experiencing severe pain
2. Your pet is having difficulty breathing
3. Your pet is profusely vomiting- This is of particular concern if the vomit contains blood, water can’t be kept down or the animal is severely depressed or obviously in a great deal of pain.
4. Your pet has had repeated unsuccessful attempts at vomiting- This is especially alarming if accompanied be an enlarged abdomen, which can be a sign of “bloat” (gastric dilatation and volvulus). This is a life-threatening condition common in large breed dogs. 
5. There is a large amount of blood present in the stool
6. Your pet is experiencing profuse, watery diarrhoea- This is of particular concerns in puppies.
7. Your pet is experiencing a seizure for the first time- If seizures are a regular episode for your pet, veterinary advice is still necessary if the seizure seems especially severe.
8. Your pet is severely depressed or there is a lack of response when you try to touch or talk to your pet
9. Your pet is experiencing extreme weakness or is unsteady when standing or walking
10. Your pet is bleeding severely  enough that there is a trail of drops when the animal is moving or a pool of blood when the animal is resting

It’s better to play it safe if you’re unsure about your pet’s condition. Always contact a veterinarian when in doubt.

Thanks to the people at vetdepot.com for the great tips!