Handling Pet Crises: Guidance from Veterinarians Maranda Elswick and Catherine Barnette
When it comes to pet emergencies, it's essential to stay calm and act swiftly. Here are some key points to remember when faced with a pet emergency.
First and foremost, only perform CPR on your pet if you are trained to do so. Common examples of pet emergencies requiring immediate veterinary care include difficulty breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, seizures, inability to urinate, collapse, severe pain, trauma from accidents, ingestion of toxins such as chocolate or medications, sudden behavioral changes, and visible swelling or severe wounds. Other critical signs warranting urgent care are labored breathing or respiratory distress, sudden inability to stand or walk, any unexplained bleeding, and extreme lethargy. Pets experiencing these symptoms need prompt evaluation and treatment to prevent deterioration or potential death.
If you suspect any of these emergencies or are unsure, contacting a veterinary emergency facility or urgent care clinic without delay is strongly advised. Safely load your pet into your vehicle, using a dog muzzle to lift your dog if needed, removing the muzzle once your pet is in the car. Gather your pet emergency kit, cell phone, wallet, and anything else that could be helpful to your vet, such as the medication bottle, plant, or a sample of any foreign substance your pet was eating. Use proper equipment to keep you and your pet safe while driving.
Upon arrival at the pet emergency room, carefully lift or carry your pet from your vehicle. If you need assistance moving a heavy dog, call the emergency vet receptionist to ask for staff to assist with a stretcher or gurney. When checking in with the receptionist, succinctly explain the situation and hand over your pet's medical records.
While waiting for treatment, move to a quiet corner of the waiting room, speak to your dog or cat in a gentle, low tone to keep them tranquil and still, and stroke them softly if tolerated. Prepare for the possibility of hospitalization or extended treatment for your pet.
Pet emergencies can be very expensive. Ask what methods of payment are accepted and begin to scout out financial options while waiting to be seen. Other financial options for covering pet emergencies include a loan from a family member, third-party payment plans, crowdsourcing, payment plans, charitable services, and various assistance funds. Be kind and respectful to veterinary staff, treating them with understanding and respect.
In the event of poison ingestion, call your vet or a pet poison control hotline for advice. Do not induce vomiting in your pet unless directed by a veterinary professional. If your pet is choking, carefully try to sweep the back of your pet's throat or firmly pat his or her back to attempt to dislodge a foreign object.
In case of heat stroke, move your pet to a cool location and offer cool water. Apply cool (not cold) water to your pet's paw pads and body. If your pet is at risk of running away and hiding, put them in a secure location such as a bathroom before departure. Meditate, eat a snack, or otherwise try to take your mind off your worries to remain calm. Avoid amplifying your own anxiety by refraining from reading online forums about what could be wrong with your pet.
In conclusion, pet emergencies can be frightening, but by staying calm, seeking prompt veterinary care, and being prepared, you can increase the chances of a positive outcome for your beloved pet.
- To mitigate the financial burden of pet emergencies, it's advisable to consider pet insurance and have a plan for covering unexpected veterinary costs.
- Besides physical health concerns, mental health is also vital for pets; seeking professional help for significant behavioral changes in your pet can contribute to their overall well-being, as guided by science and health-and-wellness research.
- In times of pet emergencies, pet first aid knowledge and proper equipment can be lifesaving, and training in pet CPR is recommended for pet owners to enhance their ability to respond quickly during critical situations.
