As a pet owner, it is important to keep our pets safe. Many pet emergencies can be avoided with thoughtful anticipation and planning. For example, taking steps to prevent accidental poisonings can save your pet a visit to the emergency clinic. Additionally, following some basic tips on water safety, fire safety, and heat safety will also keep your pet out of trouble.It is always a great idea to have a First Aid kit on hand. Your kit should include standard first aid items such as bandage supplies, gloves, thermometer, ice pack, etc., as well as items specific to your pet’s medical needs. The ASPCA has a good DIY First Aid Kit list and a free Animal Poison Control Center App. The American Red Cross has good first aid information on their website as well as a free Pet First Aid App. For common first aid information, you can search our ‘Pet Health‘ tab for information. Remember, any first aid at home should be followed by veterinary care.
In the event an emergency does arise, Lawndale Veterinary Hospital is equipped and ready to handle the situation. Just give us a call to let us know you are on your way. If Lawndale is closed, there are several emergency clinics in our local area:
If you are traveling out of the area, the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society has a search function on their website to help you locate an emergency clinic.
If your pet has ingested something toxic, you can also seek consultation from a poison control center (a fee may be involved):
Although veterinary care for emergency situations is always best, understanding when home cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) might be needed can help you feel more prepared as a pet owner – and, it could save your pet’s life! The AVMA has produced a video explaining and demonstrating pet CPR. Visit our ‘CPR for Pet Owners‘ tab to learn more.
~Author: Dr. C. Noureddine, DVM, MS