Emergency Care Basics

What to Do in an Emergency

• ✓Recognize signs of distress: excessive panting, lethargy, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, collapse, pale gums, or seizures.
• ✓Stay calm. Your pet senses your emotional state — panic worsens the situation for both of you.
• ✓Call ahead. Contact your vet or an emergency clinic before you leave. They can prep for your arrival and advise on safe transport.
• ✓Immobilize if injured. Use a firm board, blanket, or carrier to minimize movement and prevent further injury during transport.

Local Emergency Vet Contacts

Call ahead — letting them know you're on the way allows them to prepare.

Be Prepared Before It Happens

• ✓Build a pet first-aid kit: gauze, antiseptic wipes, pet-safe bandages, a digital thermometer, and a copy of your pet's medications.
• ✓Keep medical records handy: vaccination dates, known allergies, and your regular vet's contact on your phone — not buried in a drawer.
• ✓Have a carrier ready. A secure, accessible carrier is the single most important item for safely transporting an injured or sick pet.