Holidays are a bustling time, often filled with family and friends, festive events, and travel or the arrival of houseguests. Many pet owners enjoy including their four-legged family members in the celebrations, which can disrupt a pet's routine, diet, and surroundings. This can lead to stress or various health issues in pets that may require attention. Since your regular family veterinarian may not be available during the holidays, a visit to an emergency vet clinic may become necessary.
Do I Need to Go to the Emergency Vet? During the busy holiday season, it might seem like an unnecessary expense and use of time to visit an emergency veterinary clinic if your pet falls ill or has an accident. After-hours care at an emergency clinic often comes with a higher cost compared to a visit to your family veterinarian during regular office hours. However, some conditions can be severe enough to cause permanent damage or even be life-threatening. The best course of action is to contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance.
Most veterinary offices have an answering service or recorded information about obtaining emergency services. You may be directed to your regular veterinarian or referred to a nearby clinic specializing in emergency veterinary care. So, even if your regular veterinarian's office is closed, you should initiate contact with them.
Once you speak with a veterinary staff member, you can describe the issues so the vet can assess whether an emergency visit is necessary. If not, the vet can recommend the next steps for proper care of your pet.
As a general guideline, these nine conditions warrant an immediate visit to the veterinarian:
Open Wounds, Burns, or Broken Bones:
If your pet has been in an accident, altercation with another animal, or hit by a car, a prompt vet visit is crucial.
Discolored Gums:
Pale, white, or bluish gums could indicate shock, low blood sugar, anemia, poor circulation, or internal bleeding.
Toxin Exposure:
f your pet ingests something toxic, such as human medications, certain plants, or specific foods, prompt veterinary attention is essential.
High or Low Body Temperature:
Abnormal body temperature, either too high or too low, requires a vet visit.
Excessive Vocalization:
Continuous or loud cries from pets may signal pain, necessitating consultation with a vet.
Cough:
Coughing may indicate heart issues or respiratory problems.
Distended Abdomen:
A bloated abdomen can signal abdominal issues and internal bleeding, potentially leading to your pet's death if untreated.
Difficulty Breathing:
Heavy breathing or respiratory struggles may indicate heart or respiratory problems, requiring veterinary assessment.
Seizures: Seizures can cause permanent nerve or brain damage, warranting immediate contact with your vet and a visit to the emergency clinic.
How to Prevent Pet Emergencies During the Holidays: Your family's schedule typically undergoes changes during the holidays. With time off work, events to attend, and possible travel or visitors, your pet may face alterations in their routine. To prevent emergencies, try to maintain your pet's regular schedule for feeding, sleeping, and activity. Ensure that well-meaning guests are aware of your pet's dietary needs and avoid feeding them table scraps and treats.
Keep a close eye on your pets, checking periodically for changes in behavior, attitude, appetite, and regular bodily functions. If you observe significant changes or if your pet experiences an accident or any of the mentioned conditions, contact your vet immediately.
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