Do You Need to See Your Vet?

It seems like any little pet problem calls for veterinary attention, especially if you are clueless yourself. While some problems do need to be taken care of immediately, other problems can wait a couple of days and may even clear up on their own. As an owner, you should be able to identify what is an emergency and what is not, keeping your wallet heavier and your stress more manageable.

If an emergency arises, then you need to have a plan. Your veterinary office may not be open all day, every day, so it’s important that you have a backup in mind. Talk to someone at your veterinarian’s office about the office hours and emergency recommendations. That person may refer you to a specific clinic where you would need to go in case your vet’s office is closed. Not only should you inquire, but you should also make note of your veterinarian’s hours of operations. Then, you should write down the information of the emergency care facility, including phone numbers and directions. Being prepared for an emergency always makes handling the situation easier.

There are a few problems that call for immediate care. Instead of panicking over the slightest cut or scrape, make sure you use responsible judgment. If you take your pet to an emergency care facility for a non emergency, then your pet is just taking the place of a pet that may need immediate help. Plus, emergency care can be very costly; so you probably wouldn’t want to pay the big bucks for a little ointment. If you are unsure whether or not your pet’s problem constitutes an emergency, then call ahead and ask. Your veterinarian or the emergency care center can let you know whether or not you need to wait it out.

Now, it’s hard to list what exactly is an emergency, because it really all depends on the situation. However, there are a few generalities that can be applied. If your pooch suffers from a heat stroke or dehydration, then this may be an emergency. Even if your pet seems to have recovered, there could be internal damage. The same is true if he has been hit by a car; you never know how bad he is suffering on the inside. If your pet gets in a fight or suffers a serious wound and you are unable to control the bleeding (more than just a scratch or scrape), then it is an emergency. Dog bites can transmit diseases, and deep cuts can attract infections. In addition to fight wounds, eye trauma is also a biggie. The eyes are very fragile, and any damage to the eye can lead to a serious problem. Poison is another issue that requires immediate care. Whether you pooch got into the antifreeze or was bitten by a snake, poisonous situations are deadly. On the same note, an allergic reaction is also an emergency. If your pet has hives or evidence of swelling, then he needs to be checked out as soon as possible. Other emergency situations include seizures (if your pet does not suffer from epilepsy), difficulty breathing, inability to urinate or defecate, and frequent vomiting or diarrhea.

As an owner, you can tell whether your pet is in pain or if he is just not feeling well. Sometimes, bad food can cause diarrhea, but it may not be an emergency. If you think your pet is merely under the weather, then keep a close eye on him. Watch for any changes in behavior. If the problem persists for longer than 24 hours, then a trip to the veterinarian is probably in order.

Sometimes situations arise when we are faced with the decision to seek emergency care. If your pet just seems down as opposed to seriously injured, then a trip to an emergency clinic should be postponed. There may be other pets that need to see the veterinarian quicker than your pet needs to see one. If your pet is not himself, then keep an eye on him. If any changes in behavior or health occur, then take a trip to the veterinarian. Some things can wait until the following day, while other things can’t; as an owner, it’s up to you to decide.

This article was provided by pet-super-store.com an online pet shop featuring the latest in designer Dog Carriers and pet crates.