It can be very difficult to assess the severity of the situation when your pet has an accident or is unwell.
The following 15 indicators may help you make this critical decision as to whether your pet needs urgent veterinary attention:
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 the bleeding 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 travelling 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.
- If your pet has an eye injury.
- 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.
First Aid for Pets provides this information for guidance and 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. 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.