Recently, we came up with a list for our employees of situations that we would consider emergencies. These are meant to be guidelines to help differentiate between those times when you should make an appointment and have your pet seen, versus coming in immediately. I'm sure some of these are obvious, but there may be some situations that are less clear. All the examples listed below are situations where your pet should be seen as soon as possible.
Bloat -- If your dog has a bloated belly, is hunched over, seems very painful, is retching, or has pale gums he could be suffering from 'bloat' or GDV (Gastric Dilatation Volvulus).
Blocked Cat -- This is a cat that can't urinate. Usually a male cat, he may be sitting in the litter box, 'yowling', acting lethargic, and maybe smell of urine
Open-mouth Breathing -- In cats, open-mouth breathing or seeing the sides of your cat 'heaving' in and out while breathing.
Collapse or inability to use limbs
Eating something poisonous -- Anytime your pet eats something they shouldn't, you should call a veterinarian. This is often not an emergency, but the sooner the problem is dealt with the better. If your pet eats something like rat poison, it is VERY helpful to keep the box.
Seizures -- If you pet has a seizure, it is not an emergency. However, if you pet has several seizures in a row or doesn't seem to come out of a seizure, please get them to a vet immediately
Excessive Bleeding -- This is a judgment call, but in general if you can't get the bleeding to stop, your pet should be seen.
Dog Fights -- A pet attacked by another animal may go into shock and may be injured more than can be seen. They should always be seen by a vet.
Pregnant dog straining in labor -- Find out what is normal from your veterinarian BEFORE your pet goes into labor.
Sun Stroke/ Heat Stroke
Neurological Signs -- Circling, head tilt, walking like drunk, loss of balance, odd eye movements
Allergic Reactions -- Swelling of the face or hives. Allergic reactions can lead to swelling of the throat interfering with breathing
Snakebites
Trauma to the Eye
Electrocution or Burns
Cat caught in dryer
Animal covered in oil
Ingestion of antifreeze -- this must be treated immediately!
Diabetic Crisis -- If you have a diabetic pet, make sure to find out the signs to look for , and treatment
Sudden Blindness
Porcupine Quills
Cat not eating for 5 or more days
Young puppies that are depressed, not eating -- especially if unvaccinated
Vomiting all night long
I'm sure this list is not comprehensive, but is does give some of the more common serious problems that we see. Most importantly, if you think your pet has a condition that is an emergency, CALL or GO TO your veterinarian.
If you'd like to see your pet on our website stop by the hospital and have a picture taken.
We at Sangre de Cristo Animal Hospital would like to thank you on behalf of the animals for donating to the Angel Fund this past year. Because of your kindness, many needy cats and dogs received the care they required.
If you would like to make a contribution to the Angel Fund, please send your check to Sangre de Cristo Animal Hospital (Attn: Angel Fund), 3015 Cielo Court, Santa Fe, NM 87507.
Top of page Last site update: December 16, 2008