Sometimes our beloved pets get into something they shouldn’t, or maybe you were just looking the other way while out for a walk. Emergencies happen, but they can be difficult to spot in pets. If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms in your pet, call us: 717-432-6030
If you didn’t see it happen…
Without knowing what might have caused a change in your pet, it can be difficult to assess the risk. The following signs can indicate that veterinary attention is needed:
- Attempts to cough or gag
- Bleeding from mouth, nose, or anus
- Bleeding that does not stop after 5 minutes
- Burns
- Collapse
- Difficulty breathing (look for shallow or rapid panting without exertion)
- Difficulty going to the bathroom
- Distended, hard abdomen
- Eye Injuries (look for any bleeding, excessive tearing, blinking, and obvious signs of pain)
- Seizure
- Sudden limping or lameness
- Refusal to eat or drink water
- Uncharacteristic exhaustion, aggression, dizziness, confusion, lethargy, or non-responsiveness
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea that doesn’t subside
If you saw it happen…
Seeing your pet get injured makes it easier to act quickly when something goes wrong. It’s still sometimes just as hard to determine if it’s an emergency, though. If you witness your pet do any of the following, bring them to the nearest emergency vet:
- Fall from a height (such as a second or third story window/balcony)
- Bites or scratches by a wild animal or unknown pet
- Ingestion of a known toxin
- Ingestion of foreign bodies can trigger pain, bloating, vomiting, diarrhea, and other worrisome signs
- Insect or snake bites
- Pet is struck by a vehicle
It can be easy to panic when your pet is sick or hurt. What’s important is to try and remain calm for your pet. If your pet is experiencing any of the above signs and symptoms, call us: (717) 423-6030. The trusted animal care providers at Mason Dixon Animal Emergency Hospital are here to help.