Tuesday 14 April 2015

Should we call the vet???

So this post is going to be a short but sweet one... In an emergency, things need to be precise and straight to the point and that's exactly what this blog is about. 

We understand that there are times when you know something isn't quite right with your pet but you're not sure if its urgent, or requires a visit to the vet.

Unfortunately it is impossible for a vet to diagnose over the phone, without being able to fully examine your pet but there are a few symptoms that definitely require URGENT veterinary care, so below is a short list of such symptoms. BUT please be aware that this list is not extensive... It is just a guide.

Remember that at Barnsley Vets4Pets we are open 24/7 365 days a year. 

1. Collapse
2. Seizure or any neurological abnormalities
3. Difficulty breathing - sometimes pets will extend their neck or spread their front legs
4. Increased or decreased heart rate
5. Pale gums
6. Unable to urinate or difficulty urinating 
7. Extreme pain
8. Vomiting or diarrhoea that has lasted 24 hours or more
9. Toxin ingestion (see previous post on poisons)
10. Trauma such as fractures
11. Open wounds or excessive bleeding
12. Snake bite
13. Burns
14. Difficulty during labour
15. Hyperthermia
16. Unable to walk
17. Bloated abdomen
18 Unproductive retching
19. Allergic reaction
20. Unexpected bleeding or bruising

Any of the above scenarios can range from being mild, severe to life threatening but don't wait for things to get worse before calling the vet, book your pet in for an emergency appointment straight away and let the vet fully assess, diagnose and treat your pet appropriately.

We always say... it's better to over react, than not react at all. 

Thanks for reading guys, take care.