As a pet owner, it can be challenging to determine when your pet needs an emergency medical visit. Your pet may seem a little “off,” but in the end, it can be difficult to tell if the situation is potentially serious or if it will resolve itself in a short time. It is important to familiarize yourself with the signs your pet needs emergency care so you can keep them safe and healthy.
Here is a checklist of symptoms that will help you indicate when it is time to go to an emergency vet and how to stay calm and prepared during a pet crisis.
What Are the Warning Signs of a Pet Emergency?
Here are some of the most common warning signs that you should get immediate help for your pet:
- Breathing difficulties—If your pet is panting, wheezing, or gasping for breath, seek help immediately.
- Bleeding that will not stop—If any part of your pet’s body is actively bleeding, this is a major red flag.
- Seizures—If your pet has one or more seizures, especially for the first time, you need to take action quickly, as this can be very serious.
- Collapse or unconsciousness—If your pet is collapsed or unconscious at any time, this should not be ignored and needs to be addressed, as it could mean something is potentially serious.
- Abdominal bloat or swelling—This could be life-threatening, especially if you have a dog. Suddenly limping or not able to use one or more limbs, especially after a fall or accident.
- Eating something toxic – Chocolate or certain plants, or your pet’s medication or cleaning products—can be very harmful.
- Crying or whining from pain—If your pet seems unusually vocal, this could mean your pet is experiencing pain.
- Vomiting or diarrhea with no change – Could lead to dehydration fairly quickly.
- Not able to pee or poop—If your pet is attempting to pee or poop but is unable to, this could mean they are blocked, which can be potentially dangerous.
When Should You Not Wait to Get Help?
If you’re unsure whether something is urgent, here’s a quick chart to guide you:
|
Situation |
Go to the Emergency Vet? |
|
Ate a small amount of safe food |
Probably not |
|
Vomiting once, acting normal |
Monitor at home |
|
Ate something toxic |
Yes |
|
Not breathing or collapsed |
Yes |
| Bleeding won’t stop |
Yes |
|
Acting confused or losing balance |
Yes |
It’s always better to be safe than sorry. A quick call to a vet near you can help you decide.
How to Prepare for an Emergency Vet Visit?
When you’re rushing out the door, it’s easy to forget things. That’s where an emergency vet visit checklist can help:
- Your pet’s medical records (if possible)
- List of medications your pet takes
- Any recent symptoms or behaviours you’ve noticed
- A sample of vomit or stool (if it helps explain the issue)
- Leash, carrier, and a towel or blanket
- Your ID and payment method
Having these ready can help the veterinary team act faster and more effectively.
What to Do in a Pet Emergency?
In a stressful moment, it’s easy to panic. But staying calm is one of the best things you can do. Here’s what to do in a pet emergency:
- Stay calm and focus on your breathing.
- Get your pet to safety if they’re in a dangerous area like a road.
- Avoid giving food or water unless told by a vet.
- Call the emergency vet ahead to let them know you’re coming.
- Use a carrier or a blanket to safely transport your pet.
- Keep talking gently to your pet to help them feel less scared.
Trust Greenpoint Veterinary Care When Your Pet Needs You Most
When the unthinkable happens, knowing where to turn makes all the difference. At Greenpoint Veterinary Care, our compassionate team is here to help in moments that matter most. Whether it’s a late-night emergency or a sudden scare during the day, we’re ready to support you and your pet with care that puts comfort and trust first.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Keep our contact handy, and if you’re unsure what to do next, just give us a call.
Your pet counts on you, and you can count on Greenpoint Veterinary Care.
