How can I tell if my pet needs emergency veterinary care?
Fortunately, our veterinarians provide emergency care for all of our patients that are exhibiting life-threatening physical symptoms.
Emergency care is usually necessary if the following situations arise:
- Car accidents and auto injuries
- Dog fights or cat fights
- Allergic reactions to toxic chemicals or food
- Post-surgical complications,
- Breathing difficulties.
- Signs of heatstroke.
Your pet may need emergency veterinary care if he/she exhibits any of these symptoms:
- Rapid breathing
- Loss of color in the gums
- Changes in pulse rate — either a weakening of the pulse or a rapid pulse
- Excessive bleeding
- Trouble standing
- Seizures
- Paralysis
- Loss of consciousness.
Be aware of any sudden changes in your pet’s behavior, in addition to red flags signaling an emergency.
If your pet is bleeding profusely from an external injury, you can try to staunch the flow of blood by elevating the wound and applying pressure. This can help keep your pet alive until you can get to an emergency animal hospital in Brewster or nearby.
If your pet is choking, you may be able to remove the blockage from your pet’s throat with your fingers. Put your fingers in his mouth to see if you can remove the obstruction. If not, you can perform the Heimlich maneuver on your pet by rapping him sharply on the chest. You should nevertheless seek emergency care right away.
Call our emergency number before coming in so we can be ready for you, or direct you to the nearest emergency animal hospital in Brewster in the event that our emergency veterinarian is not available.