8 Signs Your Dog Needs to See the Emergency Vet in Ukiah, CA

When you’re faced with a dog health crisis it can be extremely stressful. Even if they’re just not acting themselves, it can be a weight on your shoulders. Amid all of the stress, it can be hard to discern when you should or shouldn’t go to an emergency vet. No one likes to think of cost when we think of our pets, but emergency vets are more expensive and if the health concern isn’t serious, you might want to wait until you can get into your regular vet. Here are 8 signs and symptoms of dogs that need to receive immediate care:

1. Vomiting and Diarrhea

Now, most dogs are going to vomit or have diarrhea occasionally. It could have been something they ate or that they just had a little bit of a stomach bug. When it’s time to see an emergency vet is when it’s recurring and continuous. However, you know your dog best so make the decision that’s right for you.

2. Continuous and Uncontrolled Bleeding

If your dog has been hit by a car or has been attacked, he likely has some gruesome injuries and needs to be taken straight to the emergency vet. It could also be that he’s stepped on a nail or any number of reasons. For a small scratch, the bleeding should stop naturally but if the bleeding doesn’t stop then you need to head to the vet.

3. Known or Suspected Injury

This is similar to bleeding above. If you know your dog has been hit by a car, attacked, or experienced any trauma, you should take them to the vet. External injuries are only a small part of what could have happened and your vet can help check for internal damages like broken bones or internal bleeding.

4. Known or Suspected Toxin Ingestion

If you have reason to believe your dog has been bitten by a poisonous snake, like a rattlesnake, or that he’s gotten into the chemicals under the sink or in the garage, you should take him to the emergency vet immediately. There is no home remedy to poisons, and they need to be treated by a professional. They’re also extremely time sensitive so do not waste time.

5. Collapse

If your dog collapses, take them straight to the vet. No questions asked. It could be due to a number of reasons and should be taken seriously.

6. Difficulty Breathing

Panting is of course normal, but if your dog seems to be gasping for air or it sounds like they’re really struggling to breathe, you need to see an emergency vet. You’ll be able to tell the difference between the two when it happens.

7. Bloated, Swollen or Painful Abdomen

If your dog’s stomach becomes suddenly round and hard and bloated, that’s the sign of an emergency. Take your dog in immediately.

8. Inability to Urinate or Defecate

While diarrhea is also a problem, so is the inability to urinate or defecate at all. You should always keep note of your dog’s bathroom habits because they’re an important indication of his health. If your dog hasn’t gone to the bathroom all day you need to call the emergency vet and take him in for an examination. Make sure to take this seriously.

Emergencies are never fun. In fact, they’re stressful and down-right scary. It’s important to understand how your dog normally acts so that you can tell when there’s a difference. By keeping as calm as possible and seeking an emergency vet, you’re setting your pup up for a successful recovery.