Emergency Guide for Pet Owners from Vet Hospital

Emergencies can happen at any time, and being prepared is crucial for the well-being of your beloved pets. This emergency guide provides essential information to help you respond effectively to common pet emergencies before seeking professional veterinary care. Please remember that this guide is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice in specific situations.

** PLEASE SEEK VETERINARY CARE FOR ANY OF THESE SCENARIOS. THIS GUIDE DOES NOT REPLACE TREATMENT. IT IS MEANT TO HELP SUPPORT YOU AND YOUR PET WHILE EN ROUTE TO A VETERINARY FACILITY **

  • Remain Calm: In any emergency, it’s vital to stay calm. Your pet can sense your emotions, and a calm demeanor will help both you and your pet manage the situation better.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Keep the contact information for VetTriage as well as the nearest emergency veterinary clinic easily accessible. Program these numbers into your phone and have them posted in a visible place at home. You can find these numbers on our website under the Emergencies tabs, on our Facebook page as a tagged post and as printed handouts at our hospital.
  • First Aid Kit: Prepare a pet first aid kit that includes (at minimal):
    ** We have included a more detailed First Aid Kit list with this email****

    • Gauze pads and bandages
    • Adhesive tape
    • Tweezers
    • Scissors
    • Digital thermometer
    • Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) for cleaning wounds (consult your vet before use)
    • Sterile saline solution for flushing eyes or wounds
    • Pet-friendly antiseptic wipes
    • Any specific medications your pet may need.

Here are a list of common emergency situations and how to take care of your pet while you seek out emergency care (in alphabetical order):

  • Make sure your pet has a clear airway, but do not put your hand in its mouth if your pet is conscious.
  • Cover wounds with whatever suitable material is available.
  • Handle your pet with care, supporting its body as much as possible.
  • Carry it in a basket, box, or cage to the veterinary hospital.
  • Seek veterinary attention promptly.
  • Clean the wounds immediately with warm water
  • If active bleeding apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to the wound.
  • Seek veterinary attention promptly.
  • If hemorrhage is severe on a limb, apply a tourniquet above the wound just tight enough to significantly reduce flow of blood. Be sure to loosen it every twenty minutes.
  • Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to the wound.
  • Elevate the injured area if possible.
  • Seek veterinary attention promptly.
  • Fluid in the abdomen or BLOAT/ GDV can be the cause
    • Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as gastric dilation, twisted stomach, or gastric torsion, is a medical condition that affects dogs in which the stomach becomes overstretched and rotated by excessive gas content.
  • GDV/ BLOAT -Other signs to watch for
    • Acting like he or she cannot get comfortable.
    • Breathing shallowly and quickly
    • Painful, especially around the abdomen
    • Vomiting or retching, especially if not productive
    • **** Don’t delay if your dog is displaying any of these symptoms as this indicates GDV / BLOAT
    • Breeds at higher risk of suffering an episode of bloat include
      • Weimaraners, Great Danes, Bassets, Shepherds, and Setters. Any breed can bloat; however, owners of these breeds should be on extra high alert.
  • Seek veterinary attention promptly.
  • If your pet is unconscious and does not appear to be breathing start CPR (see CPR instructions)
  • Be careful! Injured pets may bite you out of fear.
  • If you are unsure about the health or vaccination status of the injured pet, avoid contact with bodily fluids and blood.
  • Seek veterinary attention promptly
  • Cool the burned area with cool water by running water over the burn or cover it with wet towels. This also helps remove caustic substances (acid or alkaline) if these are the cause.
  • If loss of skin occurs, cover the area with the cleanest material available.
  • Seek veterinary attention promptly.
  • Remain calm and open your pet’s mouth to check for any visible obstructions.
  • If Possible, remove the object.
    • As choking pets and dogs often struggle, it’s important to restrain them first to keep both you and your pet safe. If a cord, string or other item is wrapped around his or her neck and causing them to choke, carefully use a pair of scissors to remove the item.
    • If an item is lodged in your pet’s or dog’s mouth or throat, open the mouth and try to locate the object. If you can see it, attempt to use your finger to swipe it away.
    • If the object is not visible, don’t try to poke your finger down your pet’s throat in an effort to discover it, as this may cause injury. If you’re unable to dislodge the object by swiping it away, do not try to push on it or poke it – this can force it further into the throat.
  • If you’re unable to remove the object your pet is choking on, you’ll need to do the Heimlich Maneuver carefully:
    • Lay your pet on their side.
    • Hold your pet’s back against your stomach (paws down, head up).
    • Using one hand, look for the soft hollow under the ribs (your closed fist should fit this spot).
    • Use the hand on your pet’s stomach to pull up and in 3 to 5 times toward your own stomach, using a sharp thrusting motion.
    • Roll your pet back onto their side and check their mouth for the food or object that was causing the issue
  • Performing the Heimlich Maneuver on Medium and Large Dogs
    • While your dog is standing, wrap your arms around them and join your hand at the base of their abdomen. Then make a fist with your hands and firmly and swiftly push up and forward five times in a thrusting motion – much like you would perform the maneuver on a human.
  • By using this maneuver the blockage should clear. There may be some remains of food from the blockage in your dog’s mouth and so you should ensure that you check their mouth for any remains.
  • Seek immediate veterinary care.
  • Diarrhea (severe, with blood/ with or without vomiting):
    • Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis
      • Seek veterinary attention. This is a serious condition.
  • Reasons for Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
    • Giving too much insulin
    • Missing or delaying food
    • Change in diet or amount fed
    • Infection or illness.
    • Decreased appetite or vomiting
    • Change in the body’s need for insulin.
    • Adrenal, pituitary, or thyroid gland diseases, or progression of liver or kidney disease.
    • Interaction with other medications.
    • Increase in activity.
    • Remission of diabetes (Cats)
  • If Low Blood Sugar Occurs: These side effects can happen suddenly, and require immediate care:
    • Weakness
    • Depression
    • Behavioral changes
    • Muscle twitching
    • Anxiety
    • Seizures
    • Coma
    • Death
  • If your pet is conscious, rub a small amount of corn syrup on your pet’s gums.
    • Corn syrup is absorbed very quickly (1–2 minutes), and your pet should be responsive.
    • After your pet can swallow, feed a small amount of food.
    • Contact your veterinarian immediately for further instructions.
  • If your pet is unconscious:
    • Contact your veterinarian immediately, this is a medical emergency! If your veterinarian is unavailable, contact your local emergency clinic.
  • If the cornea is penetrated or perforated it will be very painful. Prevent your pet from scratching at its eye causing further damage.
  • If the eyeball is out of its socket, keep it moist with saline solution (e.g. contact lens solution) and protect it from direct injury.
  • Seek veterinary help immediately.
  • Signs of heart failure include coughing (especially at night), difficulty breathing, bluish discoloration of the tongue (and other mucous membranes), decreased stamina and exercise intolerance.
  • If you observe any of these signs, seek veterinary help immediately.
  • Move your pet to a cool, shaded area.
  • Apply cool, wet towels to their body, especially the paw pads and around the head.
  • Offer small amounts of water.
  • Seek immediate veterinary attention.
  • Any penetrating wound to the chest or abdomen, break of a limb and virtually any injury involving the eye should be regarded as a medical emergency.
  • Injuries to the head or those causing difficulty breathing should also be treated as immediate emergencies.
  • Seek immediate veterinary attention.
  • Contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline immediately.
  • Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance.
  • If corrosive or toxic material is on the skin, rinse for fifteen minutes. Bring a sample of the suspected poison with its container to the veterinary hospital.
  • If you think your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call (888) 426-4435. A consultation fee may apply.
    The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
  • Bring the suspected poison container to the vet and your CASE NUMBER from The APCC.
  • Seek veterinary help immediately.
  • Ensure your pet is in a safe place to avoid injury.
  • Do not put your hand in your pet’s mouth.
  • Keep your pet as quiet as possible and prevent it from falling.
  • Do not attempt to interrupt the seizure.
  • Most seizures last less than two to three minutes. If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, you may need to transfer your pet during this state and seek immediate veterinary attention.
  • Once your pet has recovered from the seizure, keep it calm and warm.
  • Keep track of the duration of the seizure and what is happening during the seizure.
  • Contact your veterinarian promptly.
  • Keep your pet warm and quiet.
  • Seek veterinary help immediately.
  • What is shock?
    • Shock has many definitions. It is a complex systemic or whole body reaction to a number of situations. These include acute loss of blood volume such as hemorrhage, heart failure and other causes of decreased circulation (e.g. severe and sudden allergic reaction and heat stroke). If not treated quickly and effectively, systemic shock may cause irreversible injury to body cells, and it can be rapidly fatal.
  • How do I recognize shock?
    • Signs include rapid breathing which may be noisy, rapid heart rate with a weak pulse, pale (possibly even white) mucous membranes (gums, lips, under eyelids), severe depression (listlessness) and cool extremities (limbs and ears). The pet may vomit.
  • If necessary, apply the A, B, C of first aid:
    • Airway
      • Anything that obstructs the airway prevents oxygen entering the lungs. Do your best to clear the mouth and throat of any obstruction such as vomitus, saliva or foreign bodies such as grass, sticks or balls. Be careful; your pet may bite you in panic.
    • Breathing
      • Look at your pet’s chest for movement. Feel for air from their nose.
    • Cardiac function
      • If you are unable to detect a heartbeat or pulse or if it appears weak and slow, try pressing on the chest with your palm.
  • Repeated or continuous vomiting or diarrhea, with or without blood, could be a sign of poisoning, obstruction or acute gastrointestinal infection.
  • Dehydration is a major concern, especially in small dogs.
  • Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible and before administering human medications or forcing it to drink or eat. You may inadvertently give something that worsens your pet’s condition.
  • Seek veterinary help immediately.

Transporting Your Pet:

    • Use a sturdy and secure carrier or a well-ventilated box.
    • Keep the carrier stable and secure in your vehicle.
    • Cover the carrier with a blanket to reduce stress.
    • Keep your pet warm, as quiet as possible, and keep movement to a minimum, especially if there is possible trauma, broken limbs, or any neurological symptoms.
    • Obtain a suitable container such as a strong cardboard box. Drop a blanket or thick towel over the patient. Tuck it in carefully or maneuver the pet onto the blanket so it can be gently placed in the cardboard box or directly into your car.
    • Get to a veterinary hospital as soon as possible, but drive carefully!

Aftercare:

    • Follow any instructions provided by the veterinarian.
    • Administer medications as prescribed.
    • Schedule a follow-up appointment if necessary.
    • Monitor your pet closely for any changes in behavior or health.

Conclusion: Being prepared for pet emergencies can make a significant difference in the outcome. While this guide offers general advice, always consult your veterinarian for personalized instructions based on your pet’s health and needs. Remember, early intervention is crucial, so do not hesitate to seek professional help when needed.

First Aid Kit for Pets

A fully equipped household first aid kit contains almost all of the supplies you may need for your pets. It is recommend you keep these supplies in a waterproof container

  • Latex (or hypoallergenic material) gloves
  • Gauze sponges ( a variety of sizes)
  • Gauze roll, 2-inch width
  • Elastic cling bandage
  • Material to make a splint
  • Adhesive tape, hypoallergenic
  • Non-adherent sterile pads
  • Small scissors
  • Tweezers
  • Magnifying glass
  • Grooming clippers or safety razor
  • Nylon leash
  • Towel
  • Muzzle
  • Compact emergency “blanket” (available in the camping department of many stores)
  • Water-based sterile lubricant
  • Hydrogen peroxide (3 percent)
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Topical antibiotic ointment
  • Antiseptic towelettes
  • Insect sting stop pads

  • Cotton-tipped swabs
  • Instant cold pack
  • Epsom salts
  • Baby-dose syringe or eye dropper
  • Sterile eye lubricant
  • Sterile saline wash
  • Safety pins (medium size 4)
  • Tongue depressors
  • Diphenhydramine, if approved by your veterinarian
  • Glucose paste or Karo syrup
  • Styptic powder or pencil
  • Petroleum jelly
  • Penlight with batteries (AA)
  • Clean cloth
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Tick Twister
  • Plastic card (such as old credit card) to scrape away stingers
  • List of emergency phone numbers including those for your pet’s veterinarian, an afterhours emergency veterinary hospital, and the National Animal Poison Control Center (1888-426-4435) and money to make a phone call.

  • Latex (or hypoallergenic material) gloves
  • Gauze sponges ( a variety of sizes)
  • Gauze roll, 2-inch width
  • Elastic cling bandage
  • Material to make a splint
  • Adhesive tape, hypoallergenic
  • Non-adherent sterile pads
  • Small scissors
  • Tweezers
  • Magnifying glass
  • Grooming clippers or safety razor
  • Nylon leash
  • Towel
  • Muzzle
  • Compact emergency “blanket” (available in the camping department of many stores)
  • Water-based sterile lubricant
  • Hydrogen peroxide (3 percent)
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Topical antibiotic ointment
  • Antiseptic towelettes
  • Insect sting stop pads
  • Cotton-tipped swabs
  • Instant cold pack
  • Epsom salts
  • Baby-dose syringe or eye dropper
  • Sterile eye lubricant
  • Sterile saline wash
  • Safety pins (medium size 4)
  • Tongue depressors
  • Diphenhydramine, if approved by your veterinarian
  • Glucose paste or Karo syrup
  • Styptic powder or pencil
  • Petroleum jelly
  • Penlight with batteries (AA)
  • Clean cloth
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Tick Twister
  • Plastic card (such as old credit card) to scrape away stingers
  • List of emergency phone numbers including those for your pet’s veterinarian, an afterhours emergency veterinary hospital, and the National Animal Poison Control Center (1888-426-4435) and money to make a phone call.