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Emergency Pet Care of Texas

What Qualifies as a Pet Emergency?

Dog (Golden Retriever) Being Examined by 2 Veterinarians

What’s considered an emergency?

Recognizing when your pet needs immediate medical care can be challenging. A trip to the emergency vet can be stressful for both you and your furry friend. We understand that you may hesitate to bring your pet in unless absolutely necessary, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Some symptoms always warrant a trip to the vet. We’ve put together this list to help you determine when to seek immediate care.

Signs of a Pet Emergency

  • Breathing Difficulties: Any difficulties breathing: short or shallow breath, increased effort, gagging, choking

  • Seizures: First-time seizures, seizures lasting more than three minutes, or multiple seizures

  • Vomiting & Abdominal Issues: Non-productive retching/vomiting, swollen or distended abdomen

  • Urinary Problems: Inability or straining to urinate

  • Mobility Issues: Inability to stand or walk

  • Pregnancy Concerns: Pregnant pet in active labor for more than one hour without delivering; a pet that has gone more than 3-4 hours between delivering

  • Blood in Vomit or Stool: Vomiting blood, passing blood in stools/urine

  • Allergic Reactions: Hives or swollen face

  • Trauma: bite wounds, broken bones, burns, cuts, lacerations, electric shock, eye injuries, heatstroke, hit by car

  • Toxic Ingestion: Ingestion of toxic or harmful substance

Delaying care during an emergency can lead to irreversible damage and reduce your pet’s chances of recovery. If you’re ever unsure whether to bring your pet in, please call us immediately at 832-376-3728.