Emergency Reference Guide

Pet Emergency Guide

Know the warning signs that mean your pet needs immediate veterinary care. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution.

Find Emergency Vets Near MeASPCA Poison Control

Go to Emergency Vet Immediately

These symptoms require immediate veterinary attention. Do not wait.

Difficulty Breathing

Labored breathing, gasping, blue/purple gums or tongue, choking, or open-mouth breathing in cats.

Keep pet calm. Do not restrict airway. Transport immediately.

Seizures

Uncontrolled shaking, paddling legs, loss of consciousness, foaming at the mouth.

Move objects away from pet. Do NOT put hands near mouth. Time the seizure. Go to emergency vet if seizure lasts over 3 minutes.

Collapse or Inability to Stand

Sudden weakness in legs, dragging hind limbs, or complete collapse.

Support the pet gently. Do not force them to move. Transport on a flat surface if possible.

Suspected Poisoning

Ingestion of chocolate, xylitol, grapes/raisins, antifreeze, rodent poison, lilies (cats), or medications.

Call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661). Bring the substance packaging to the vet.

Severe Bleeding

Uncontrolled bleeding from a wound, blood in vomit or stool, or bleeding from nose/mouth.

Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth. Do NOT remove the cloth if blood soaks through -- add layers. Transport immediately.

Bloat / Distended Abdomen

Swollen, hard abdomen. Retching without producing vomit. Restlessness, pacing, drooling. Most common in large-breed dogs.

This is a life-threatening emergency. Do NOT wait. Transport to emergency vet immediately. GDV (bloat) can be fatal within hours.

See a Vet Within 1-4 Hours

These symptoms are urgent and should not wait until the next business day.

Persistent vomiting (more than 2-3 times in an hour)
Bloody diarrhea or large amounts of blood in stool
Eye injuries -- squinting, swelling, discharge, or visible damage
Inability to urinate (especially male cats -- can be fatal within 24 hours)
Severe pain -- crying out when touched, aggressive when normally gentle
Heat stroke -- heavy panting, drooling, bright red gums, temperature over 104F
Trauma -- hit by car, fall from height, or animal attack
Swallowed foreign object -- string, bones, toys, or clothing

First Aid: What to Do Before You Get to the Vet

Stay Calm

Your pet can sense your panic. Speak in a calm, reassuring voice. A stressed pet is harder to handle and transport safely.

Call Ahead

Call the emergency vet before you arrive so they can prepare. Describe the symptoms and any substances your pet may have ingested.

Safe Transport

For small pets, use a carrier. For larger dogs, use a blanket as a stretcher. Support the spine if you suspect back injury. Muzzle if the pet may bite from pain (but never muzzle a vomiting animal).

Bring Information

Bring your pet's medical records, current medications, and any packaging of substances they may have eaten. Note the time symptoms started.

Pet Poison Hotlines

ASPCA Poison Control

(888) 426-4435

24/7 · Consultation fee may apply

Pet Poison Helpline

(855) 764-7661

24/7 · $85 per incident fee

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