For both pets and their owners, dealing with pet emergencies can be frightening and stressful. However, knowing where to turn for emergency animal care for your injured or sick pet can make all the difference. Here at All Pets Animal Hospital, we provide around-the-clock pet treatment for dogs, cats, and exotic animals in Katy, TX.
If you are experiencing a pet emergency, here are the steps to take to get your pet seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Be Prepared
The best way to deal with an emergency is to prepare well ahead of time. Injuries and illnesses can occur in pets of all species, breeds, and ages. So, you should have the contact information for your preferred emergency animal hospital ready to go at a moment’s notice. Additionally, you’ll want to have some key information about your pet written down or stored on your phone, such as their primary veterinary provider’s contact info, their daily diet (including the brand of food they eat and the quantity), any prescription medications or supplements they take (including their dosages and frequency), and any preexisting health conditions and allergies. With this information, your emergency pet care provider can ensure accurate, safe care for your pet.
Stabilize Your Pet
Depending on the type of injury or illness you’re dealing with, you may need to take steps to stabilize your pet and get them ready for transport. For example, if your pet is bleeding, you’ll need to wrap the wound in gauze or clean cloth and apply light pressure. If your pet is injured and cannot walk on their own, you may need to use a board or crate to support their body as you transport them to your vehicle. Small pets can be safely moved in crates, while larger pets may need to be supported in the car with a harness or sling attached to the backseat.
Call Your Nearest Animal Hospital
Ideally, you should call the animal hospital to let them know you’re coming, so they can prepare to receive your pet and ready staff to help get your pet out of the car, if needed. If you cannot call ahead, simply head in and check in with the receptionist. You do not need an appointment to get emergency care for your pet.
Pet emergencies can be difficult and stressful, but All Pets Animal Hospital & 24-Hour Emergency Care is here to help your pet feel better quickly and provide the immediate care they need. With surgical services, digital radiography, a diagnostic laboratory, and 24-hour care and monitoring with a veterinarian on staff at all hours, we can provide the complete care your pet needs. We can also assist with payment plans through Scratchpay and Care Credit.