Handling Pet Emergencies: When to Visit the ER Vet
Emergencies are never subtle, and there’s never a good time to drop everything you are doing to handle one. It’s especially scary when the pet you love is in distress and you aren’t sure what to do.
Personal Experience with Pet Emergencies
In a recent experience with our pet Mona and duck bones in Santa Fe, I discovered that while it can be concerning, pets often pass such issues with ease. Mona never vomited, which was unexpected, but she managed to get through it.
What You Can Do at Home
Before you rush to the ER Vet, there are some steps you can take at home. I will provide guidance on when it is safe to wait and schedule a regular vet appointment versus when immediate action is necessary.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Here are several warning signs that require immediate attention:
- Struggling to Breathe: Look for blue gums, pink liquid coming from the mouth, stretching their neck or head, or heavy panting.
- Consistent Coughing: If your pet cannot rest due to persistent coughing.
- Distended Stomach and Bloating
- Whimpering in Pain
- Restlessness or Unusual Anxiety
- Yellow Gums (Jaundiced)
- Dragging Legs or Struggling to Walk
- Fever
- Falling Down or Collapse
- Seizures or Trembling
- Discharge from the Vagina or Penis
- Vomiting More Than Once
- Unusual Odor
- Any Trauma
- Lethargy
- Inability to Walk or Dragging Back Legs
This list isn’t exhaustive, but it gives a good starting point for deciding when to seek emergency care.
Pet emergencies can be incredibly stressful, but being prepared and knowing when to seek help can make a significant difference. By understanding the warning signs and having a plan in place, you can act swiftly and effectively to ensure your pet receives the care they need.
