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) 355-7707 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) 355-7707 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.