When to See an Emergency Vet in Centennial, CO

 

As a pet owner in Centennial, it’s important for you to understand that there are times when you may need an emergency vet. Some pet crises are true emergencies that simply cannot wait until your regular vet is available, and in these situations, you must be ready to respond quickly for the safety of your pet.

In the article below, you’ll find out more information about situations when it’s crucial to see an emergency vet. You can use this information to help you choose, but remember that it’s always best to go with your gut. If you feel like your pet is having an emergency, then respond accordingly.

 

Dehydration

Dehydration is a serious problem for pets, and many pets can die within just a couple of days if they do not get enough fluids. If your pet has been having diarrhea or vomiting severely for a while, there is a good chance he may be dehydrated.

If you suspect your pet is dealing with dehydration, take him to the emergency vet right away. The vet will give him fluids and help him get stable again, and then will help get to the bottom of the underlying problem.

 

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a very serious condition that can quickly turn fatal. If your dog overheats to a dangerous level, he may show signs including an increased heart rate, labored breathing, excessive drooling, loss of color in the gums, and fainting. If you suspect your dog is dealing with heatstroke, he needs to see an emergency vet right away.

Heatstroke can be avoided by ensuring your pet is not left alone in a car on a hot day. You should also not overexert your pet in the heat and should never leave him outdoors all day when it’s very hot out, either.

 

Airway Blockage

An airway blockage may be full or partial. A partial blockage can sometimes be difficult to recognize, but you can usually tell there’s something wrong because your pet is in distress and is wheezing or hacking. A full blockage may stop your pet from being able to breathe at all and is even more serious of an emergency.

In either instance, you should go to the emergency vet right away. If possible, bring someone else with you who can call the vet while you’re already on the road. This way, you can get your dog the help he needs fast.

 

Digestive Blockage

A digestive blockage is usually caused by a dog eating an item that he should not, such as part of a toy or a household object. These blockages can become fatal quickly, as they cause parts of the intestines and digestive system to die off.

If you know your dog has ingested something dangerous or if you suspect he might be dealing with a digestive blockage, he needs to see the emergency vet. He will likely need emergency surgery to remove the blockage, and will need IV fluids to help his body recover from the damage.

 

Acute Injury

An acute injury is any injury that happens suddenly and unexpectedly. For example, if your dog falls off of a piece of furniture and pulls a muscle or is involved in an accident with a vehicle, these are acute injuries. Some are mild (such as the pulled muscle) and do not require emergency vet care, but others are more serious (like the vehicle accident) and need to be treated by an emergency vet as soon as possible.

Take your dog to the vet and provide as much information as possible about the accident. The emergency vet will check your pet thoroughly and will perform any necessary treatments or surgeries.

 

Worsening of Chronic Condition

If your dog has a known chronic condition, such as congestive heart failure or epilepsy, you know what to expect from this health problem. However, the problem will eventually grow worse, and you may choose to take your pet to the emergency vet in this situation.

If you do take your pet with a known chronic condition to the emergency vet, you may be faced with the need to choose between treatment or euthanasia. If this is the case, the emergency vet will provide you with all the information you need and will help you make the best, most compassionate decision based on your pet’s specifics.

 

 

These are just some of the situations in which you might need to see an emergency vet. It’s important to remember that your pet’s health and wellbeing rely on you in these times, and you should always err on the side of caution if you think your pet is dealing with an emergency.

Be sure to locate contact information for a good emergency vet before you need one. This way, if the time ever comes, you can find this information quickly and get your pet on the road to recovery without waiting.