Providing Life Saving Care with Expertise and Compassion
At CARE Veterinary Hospital, we understand how stressful and frightening it can be when your pet experiences a medical emergency. Our compassionate and skilled team is here to provide the highest level of care and support during these critical times.
What Conditions Require Emergency or Urgent Care?
There are several symptoms that may be a sign that your pet needs immediate attention. If you notice your pet struggling with any of these, we’re here to help. Here are some common issues that may mean your pet has a health emergency or needs urgent care:
Contact Emergency Care
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty walking or collapsing
- Consumption of anything foreign
- Seizure, cluster seizures
- Difficulty urinating or defecating
- Vomiting or diarrhea for more than 24 hours
- Distended abdomen
- Traumatic injury
- Toxin or drug ingestion
- Snake bite
- Pale gums
- Acute disorientation or Neurological issues
May Need Urgent Care
- Persistent coughing or sneezing
- Moderate limping
- Itchy skin, rash, and swelling
- Moderate digestive issues
- Loss of appetite
- Mild seizure
- Mild injury
- Allergic reaction
- Blood in urine
Consult Your Primary Care Veterinarian
- Hair loss
- Moderate itching or irritated skin
- Weight loss
- Weight gain
- Chronic illness with no recent change in condition
If you’re concerned, we’re concerned. Please reach out to us! We can talk with you about the symptoms your pet is experiencing to determine if you need to seek emergency care or can wait to see your primary care veterinarian.
What to Expect at Our Emergency Clinic
We understand that pet emergencies can be stressful. Here’s a general overview of what to expect when you visit our clinic. Please note that this is a general outline, and the specific steps may vary based on your pet's condition. Our top priority is providing the best possible care, and we’ll partner with you through every step of the process.
Triage
Our team will assess your pet's condition and assign a priority level (red, yellow, or green). This method allows us to prioritize cases based on severity.
Initial Assessment
A team member will gather your pet's medical history and conduct a preliminary examination.
Veterinarian Exam
A veterinarian will thoroughly examine your pet using various methods which may include some of these diagnostics:
- Physical Examination: A detailed assessment by our veterinarians to understand your pet’s current health status.
- Diagnostic Imaging: Techniques such as X-rays, ultrasound, and CT scans to get a clear picture of internal structures and conditions.
- Laboratory Tests: Blood work, urinalysis, and other tests to gather essential information about your pet’s health.
When the evaluations are complete, the veterinarian will discuss potential treatment options with you.
Treatment Plan & Cost Estimate
You'll receive a detailed explanation of recommended treatments and their associated costs. Treatments are always tailored to your pet’s specific needs and could include interventions like these:
- Medications: To manage pain, infection, or other conditions.
- Intravenous (IV) Fluids: To maintain hydration and support recovery.
- Oxygen Therapy: For pets experiencing respiratory distress.
- Surgery: If necessary, to address life-threatening issues.
When the evaluations are complete, the veterinarian will discuss potential treatment options with you.
Treatment & Monitoring
Our team will administer the approved treatments, closely monitoring your pet's progress.
Ongoing Evaluation
As your pet's condition evolves, we may recommend additional tests or adjustments to the treatment plan.
Hospitalization and Monitoring
If your pet requires intensive care, they will be admitted to our dedicated ICU ward. Our state-of-the-art facility includes oxygen cages, heated flooring, and advanced monitoring systems to ensure your pet receives the best possible care. Our ICU team provides round-the-clock attention and support, ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
Once your pet is stable and ready to go home, we will provide comprehensive aftercare instructions to help you manage their recovery. We will also coordinate with your primary veterinarian to ensure seamless follow-up care. Our team is always available to answer any questions and provide additional support as needed.
If you think your pet might need emergency or urgent care, don’t hesitate to call. Our team is ready to help.