Pets are irreplaceable. They are important members of our families and provide us with companionship, love, and support. They are there for us through thick and thin and are always happy to see us when we come home. They are loyal and always happy to be with us.
Whether you own a Frenchie puppy, an orange kitten, or a mutt from the shelter, when our pets get sick, it can be extremely distressing, but it is all too common. One in three pets will need emergency vet treatment within a given year. The thing we want to do most is to make them feel better and help them get back to their old selves as soon as possible. There are a number of common emergencies with pets that can occur, and it’s important to seek emergency care immediately in these events. Keep reading to learn more.
Trauma or Injury
Trauma or injury is a common pet emergency. Pets can sustain injuries from a variety of sources, including motor vehicle accidents, falls, fights with other animals, and contact with poisonous plants or substances. The most common signs of trauma or injury in pets are bleeding, limping, swelling, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect your pet has sustained a traumatic injury, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible as they can be very serious and may cause permanent damage.
Poisoning
Poisoning is a common pet emergency, as many people do not realize that many common items in their homes can be dangerous to their pets. Pets can get into anything and everything, so it is important to be aware of the items in your home that could potentially harm your pet. Specifically, pets tend to get into food that is not intended for them. Foods that are commonly poisonous to pets include chocolate, grapes, raisins, and macadamia nuts. These foods can cause serious health problems in pets, including seizures, coma, and even death. Other common causes of poisoning in pets include:
- Insecticides and pesticides
- Human and veterinary medications
- Plants, flowers, and bulbs
- Foods
- Cleaning products
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a common pet emergency, especially during the summer months. Dogs are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses because they can’t cool themselves as effectively as humans can. Early signs of heat stroke include excessive panting, drooling, and restlessness. If left untreated, heat stroke can cause seizures, coma, and even death.
It’s important to take steps to prevent heat stroke in the first place. Make sure your pet has plenty of fresh water to drink, and keep him in a shaded area or indoors when it’s hot outside. You may also want to consider investing in a cooling vest or pet-safe ice pack to help keep your pet cool.
Choking
Choking is a common pet emergency. Choking occurs when an object, usually a piece of food, becomes lodged in the throat and blocks the airway. The animal cannot breathe and may start to panic and react. If you think your pet is choking, you should take the following steps:
- Check to see if your pet is still breathing.
- If your pet is not breathing, begin CPR.
- If your pet is still breathing, try to dislodge the object causing the obstruction.
- If you are unable to dislodge the object, or if your pet is not responding to treatment, you should take your pet to the veterinarian immediately.
It can be very stressful when your pet experiences an emergency. You may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. You may be worried about your pet’s health and whether they will be okay. Overall, it is important to stay calm and be aware of the most common pet emergencies and what to do in the event of one.
