15 indicators that your pet should see a vet
When your pet has an accident or is ill it can be incredibly difficult to assess how serious it is and whether it is necessary to involve the Vet. Often the best advice is if in doubt, seek veterinary attention. However, there are 15 indicators that your pet should see a vet to help you make this important decision.
The decision will vary from case to case, but we would strongly advise that the following constitutes a veterinary emergency:
- If your pet appears not to be breathing, is struggling for breath or is breathing in a strange way.
- If they have a severe injury that is bleeding profusely and you are unable to stop with direct pressure on the wound
- If they are unconscious or unaware of what is going on around them.
- If they are having a severe allergic reaction.
- If they are burnt and their skin is visibly damaged or blistered.
- If they have fallen from a height, been hit by something traveling at speed (like a car) or been hit with force.
- If you suspect they have ingested antifreeze, rat poison or any other poisonous substance.
- They appear to have severe abdominal pain, a bloated stomach and attempt to vomit – bringing up white foam – this could be a sign of bloat (Gastric Dilation Volvulus GDV) which is extremely dangerous and potentially fatal.
- If they have an extremely high or low temperature it is a Veterinary emergency.
- If your pet has an eye injury they should be seen immediately by a Vet.
- All bite wounds should be checked, cleaned and dressed by a Vet.
- Deep wounds should be properly cleaned and dressed by a Vet.
- If your dog has recovered from a near drowning experience they should be checked by a Vet to prevent secondary drowning.
- If they have had a seizure and seem to have made a full recovery, it is always sensible to get them checked out.
Watch the video below to learn how to examine your dog to check for any of the above
About us
Written by Emma Hammett for First Aid for Life
Award-winning first aid training tailored to your needs
It is strongly advised that you attend a practical First Aid for Pets course or take our online course to understand what to do in a medical emergency. Please visit https://firstaidforlife.org.uk, https://www.firstaidforpets.net or call 0208 675 4036 for more information about our courses.
First Aid for Life is a multi-award-winning, fully regulated first aid training provider. Our trainers are highly experienced medical, health and emergency services professionals. They will tailor the training to your needs. Courses for groups or individuals at our venue or yours.
First Aid for Pets provides this information for guidance. It is not in any way a substitute for veterinary advice. The author does not accept any liability or responsibility for any inaccuracies or for any mistreatment or misdiagnosis of any person or animal, however caused.