Pet Emergencies: What Can and Can’t Wait

Introduction: pets and emergencies

Whether it’s a cat or dog, guinea pig or turtle, chances are you consider your pet a member of the family. So if they’re suddenly not acting right, it can be scary. But not all pet health problems are emergencies that need to be seen by a veterinarian right away. Learning to recognize when your pet is truly sick or injured and needs professional care can help save you time and money—and keep your best friend happy and healthy. Some pet health problems are obvious, such as if your dog is hit by a car or your cat stops eating. But others aren’t so easy to spot. If you’re unsure whether your pet’s problem is an emergency, but on the side of caution and call your veterinarian for advice.

What is a pet emergency?

An emergency is a sudden, often unexpected event that requires immediate action. This can range from a cut requiring stitches, or your pet has been in a dog or cat fight and has obvious injuries. Also, if your pet has laboured breathing, is not eating or drinking, or has sudden mobility issues including struggling to get up, balancing on all legs, or swaying from side to side, or has an accident with a car or a hard object that could cause severe damage and requires urgent care.

When to bring your pet to the vet

No one ever wants to think about their pet having an emergency, but it’s essential to be prepared in case it does happen. Knowing what is and isn’t a true pet emergency can help save you time, money, and your pet’s life. Pets are members of the family, and when they’re sick or injured, it can be a scary time for pet parents. It’s important to know when to seek medical attention for your pet and when you can provide care at home. Here are some guidelines for when to bring your pet to the vet. Suppose your pet is having difficulty breathing, is unconscious, has suffered a traumatic injury, or is showing signs of severe pain. In that case, these are all situations that warrant an immediate trip to the vet. If you’re unsure whether your pet’s condition is serious, it’s always better to be on the side of caution and seek professional help. You can always call your vets for advice if you’re unsure.

Pet insurance

Pet insurance is a big global trend in pet care and is not often thought about until an emergency situation arises with a pet. It is important to have pet insurance for those unexpected vet bills. There are many different policies and companies to choose from. Do your research on what type of policy would be best for your pet. Some things to consider when looking for pet insurance are:

-Is there a deductible?

-How much is the monthly premium?

-What is covered under the policy?

-Is there a co-pay?

-What is the reimbursement percentage?

Policies vary greatly, so it is important to find one that meets your needs. Some companies even offer wellness plans in addition to emergency coverage. These plans help with routine care, such as vaccinations and check-ups, which can also be expensive.

Conclusion

In any pet emergency, time is of the essence. That’s why it’s important to know what can and can’t wait. If your pet is displaying any of the following symptoms, it’s time to head to the vet right away:

• Difficulty breathing
• Ingestion of a poisonous substance
• Severe trauma
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea

On the other hand, if your pet has a minor injury or is exhibiting more mild symptoms like coughing or sneezing, you may be able to wait until regular business hours to seek treatment. Of course, if you’re ever unsure whether or not your pet’s condition warrants a trip to the vet, it’s always best to be on the side of caution and give them a call.