What is an emergency?
It is difficult to diagnose a problem over the telephone. When in doubt we always will encourage a visit to evaluate your pet and then decide whether action is necessary in the moment. This is the safest and most consistent way that we can make sure we are answering all of your questions about your pet and the signs that you are noticing.
Here are some examples of common veterinary emergencies:
- Breathing Pattern Changes or Difficulty
- Bleeding
- Wounds
- Difficulty Urinating or Passing Stool
- Changes to Oral Gum Color
- Distended or Bloated Abdomen/Belly
- Persistent Vomiting/Diarrhea
- Difficulty or Unusual Delay in Delivering Kittens or Puppies
- Weakness/Changes to Alertness
- Convulsion/ Loss of Balance
- Trembling/Shaking
- Exposure to Extreme Temperatures
- Pain, Discomfort or Acute Lameness
- Hit By Car
- Fall From Height
- Dog or Cat Fights
- Bites from Wildlife
- Exposure to any chemicals/toxins (see Pet Poisons page)
- Eye discomfort, severe itching, hives, facial swelling
- Sudden Deterioration of Chronic Illness
Any signs that are troubling you or your pet, or changes in your pet's behavior or actions, are a reason to see us.
We encourage you to see your family veterinarian for these problems if you choose not to see us on an emergency basis.
