Recognizing a Pet Emergency
Many pet owners have found themselves in difficult situations in which they know something is wrong with their pet, but the veterinary clinic is closed. How do you know when it’s a true emergency and how do you know when it can wait until the clinic opens the next day? We will discuss some common situations that often cause pet owners concern.
If you have an animal who is showing lameness, such as abnormal movements or the inability to use a limb, the severity will determine the degree of urgency. If lameness is severe, suddenly worse, associated with bleeding, or persists for more than 24 hours, this should be considered an emergency. Weight-bearing lameness, or limping, can typically be evaluated within one to two days by a primary care veterinarian.
It is important that you contact your veterinarian if you feel that your pet needs pain medication. Sources online may recommend giving non-steroidal, over-the-counter medications to pets for pain relief, but this can cause serious toxicity or drug interaction issues. Typically, veterinary medications are much safer, more effective, and interfere less with our ability to diagnose and treat more complicated causes of lameness.
Dogs with bleeding cuts and injuries are also considered emergencies when severe, especially if accompanied by lethargy or weakness. Dog bite wounds not only cause physical damage but can also lead to infection and spread diseases between animals. It is important to know that dogs when pale pink or white mucus membranes, including gums and tissues inside of eyelids, can indicate severe or rapid blood loss. This is a huge emergency which should be addressed immediately.
Another common cause of concern for pet owners is when a dog or cat becomes lethargic or refuses to eat or drink. In general, a dog or cat that doesn’t eat or is lethargic for more than 24 hours should be evaluated. Overall, if you feel that the situation may be an emergency, take the animal to a veterinarian as soon as possible. It is better to over-react and have to pay for an emergency room visit than to do nothing and lose a pet.
