How To Handle A Pet Emergency

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Accidents involving pets may happen at any time of the day or night. Unfortunately, when there’s a medical emergency, it can be hard to make the most rational decision. That’s why you need to have a well-thought-out emergency plan before you need it. 

What Is A Pet Emergency?

Your pet may require emergency care due to severe trauma caused by:

  • A fall or accident
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Choking
  • Heatstroke
  • Ingesting toxins
  • An insect sting
  • Any life-threatening situation

How To Know If My Pet Needs An Emergency Vet Appointment

If you notice any of the following signs, you should call University Animal Clinic at (941) 253-5218 for instant help:

  • Excessive bleeding
  • Extreme changes in heart rate
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Apparent paralysis
  • Extreme body temperature
  • Rapid breathing
  • Pale gums
  • Persistent diarrhea

If your pet emergency is caused by it eating a toxic substance, be sure to tell us on the phone and bring that substance with you when you come to the clinic. This will help us prepare the antidote for your pet and provide the best treatment.

Some of the substances that you may need to bring with you include:

  • Chocolate wrappers with the percentage of cacao listed on them
  • The container, if the pet ingested a prescription medication or household chemical
  • The leaf and stem of a toxic plant

Also, if your pet ate a classified substance like marijuana, please let us know. We’re not required to report such cases, and we’re never going to be judgemental. All we need from you is your honesty so we can provide the type of treatment that will restore your pet’s health as quickly as possible.

How Do I Know Who To Call For Pet Emergencies?

If you have an emergency and live in the Bradenton or Sarasota areas, call University Animal Clinic. We’ll give you some tips to help you determine the severity of the issue. You should also call the nearest vet practice if your regular vet is far away from your home, or if the incident occurs at night.

Always Stay Calm

We know it’s not always easy to deal with anxiety when you have an emergency, but if you’re prepared, you will find it easier to remain composed and act rationally. Here are some tips for staying calm if your pet has an emergency:

  • Call us immediately. We know what to say to help calm your nerves.
  • Have a first aid kit with you and get familiar with first aid techniques.
  • Have the contact information of a local vet practice that’s open 24 hours a day.
  • Restrain your pet with a leash to curtail their reaction to pain.
  • Have a pet stretcher ready and practice strapping your pet in it before an emergency occurs.

Contact University Animal Clinic

Give us a call at (941) 253-5218 now for information about how to handle a pet emergency or book your appointment online. Our AAHA accredited vet clinic offers the highest quality of veterinary care for your pets, and our wellness plans provide you with exceptional preventive pet care at affordable rates.

What Our Clients Have To Say

I wasn’t holding my breath that a vet would work hard to help diagnose my leopard gecko. I was wrong. The doctor worked hard to diagnose why our pet lizard stopped eating & ran a battery of tests.

Paulina Testerman

Vets and staff are knowledgeable and efficient. Clean and friendly Vet office. My dog now goes in to see her Vet with out balking.

Sara Little

Dr. Fink was just super with the Bruiser on his last visit. The entire staff was attentive, caring and professional. We would highly recommend University Animal Clinic to all who love their pets and want the best care for them.

ARF

All employees are amazing with animals. I am glad I found a Vet’s office that makes me feel that my 5 months old puppy is in the best hands

Heide Myrick

Even with full covid-19 protection our Basset was well cared for by the staff, I received detailed home care instructions and got a ‘checking on you’ call the next day. Our basset is on the way to revovery. Perfect outcome. Great caring friendly staff.

Stan Yonkauski

Met Dr. Sam and Dr. Fink today and was very impressed. We have been a client of University Animal Clinic since it opened with Dr. Rill. My wife and I feel very comfortable with these ladies and plan to keep our relationship with them. The staff and Dr’s are very helpful and friendly.

Pet Parent

The very best of care, the entire staff always gives their all and truly cares about both patient and parents! You won’t find a better clinic in Sarasota.

Ron Marano

My dogs, Max and Leo, always have a very positive experience at UAC. The staff is friendly and professional. The office is efficient and clean. I appreciate the ability to check on the dogs’ vaccinations, etc., on the pet portal. Great vet practice.

Ronni Silverman

The entire staff was friendly and professional. Dr. Sam was extremely knowledgeable, kind, and eased my anxiety. Even though I was worried they comforted me, answered all of my questions, and took great care of my fur baby.

Zach Gennette

It is very difficult to find an avian vet who is kind while not sugar coating what can be bad news. I had no idea conures get cataracts as they get older, helped me understand my bird’s actions. The Dr. is wonderful!

Jessica Sakas
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