It's the situation that we all dread the most: our beloved animal companion is suddenly acting differently or showing signs of illness and it's after hours. This can be a terrifying situation, and many people are unsure of what to do which can leave their companion in grave danger.
At what point do you know it's time to visit animal urgent care?
This quick guide will tell you all you need to know if your pet is suddenly under the weather:
Signs An Urgent Vet Trip Is Necessary
There are a few things that should immediately alert you to the fact that your furry companion is in distress or feeling physically ill. These are all warning signs that you should absolutely not ignore:
-Nausea. Nausea is never a good sign, especially if it’s more than your typical hairball. If your pet is continuously throwing up it can quickly start to suffer from dehydration and other negative side effects.
-Behavioral changes. Is your usually cuddly and lovable pet suddenly hiding, growling at you, or whimpering? This may be a sign that they are experiencing some kind of distress and that they need to be examined by a vet urgently.
-Wheezy breathing. If your pet is experiencing labored breathing you need to visit animal urgent care as soon as possible.
-Seizures. Any type of seizing in pets is considered a serious ailment and can be immediately life-threatening.
-Severe injuries or bleeding. If your pet has been hurt and is physically bleeding then you’ll definitely need to take them to visit animal urgent care.
-Sudden changes to toilet habits. If your cat, for example, suddenly stops using the litter box you need to have them urgently examined.
Preparing For A Trip To Animal Urgent Care
What are some of the things you can do to prepare in case of a trip to animal urgent care?
Veterinarians typically recommend that you have the following on hand if your animal is to experience a health emergency:
The contact details of your usual vet and a 24 hour one
Directions on the fastest route to get to both
The contact details for the Animal Poison Control Center
Basic CPR for pets
A pet carrier and comfortable towel or blanket
You can also capture the symptoms your pet is displaying on a photo or video to show your vet during your visit.
The Financial Side Of Urgent Animal Care
Emergency animal care can be very expensive. There is unfortunately a lot of diagnostic testing, treatments, and other steps necessary that can really add up.
You might want to consider putting some dedicated funds aside in case your pet was to get ill or invest in a pet insurance plan. Your vet should be able to recommend a good pet insurance carrier in your area.
Taking Important Steps To Save Your Pet
Oftentimes in emergency situations, timing can be crucial. If you notice any of these signs in your pet don't delay - contact your veterinarian immediately or visit an urgent animal care center that can take the steps needed to save your animal companion.
Companion Veterinary and Urgent Care Center is the only veterinary hospital in Bradenton/Sarasota that provides urgent and wellness care, which allows us to provide a “whole pet” approach to your furry family member’s health.