Aging Pets Need Special Care

Emergency Veterinarian Situations For Dog Owners

Your dog is like one of the family, and you always make sure that they are well taken care of. One aspect of caring for your dog is always making sure that he or she gets the very best medical attention possible. It is safe to say that you have kept up with shots and that you even got your dog neutered or spayed when the time was right. However, it can be very important that you know when to take your dog into an emergency veterinarian's office. Knowing what is normal for your dog and knowing when the dog's behavior strays from normal is absolutely key to the health of your dog. Here are just a few reasons to take your dog to an emergency vet. 

Disclaimer: This is not an exhaustive list.

Bloat

One of the more dangerous situations that a dog can be in is when they have a gastrointestinal blockage. This can occur if they swallow something hard like a rock or even if their intestines become kinked or knotted. This is a life-threatening situation for your dog, so it is important that you recognize the signs. The first thing that you should look for is restlessness. If your dog is acting like it simply can't get comfortable, then bloat could be the cause. Often, the dog will lay down and try to get comfortable but will be up panting around in a matter of seconds. You may also see the dog try to vomit but be unsuccessful. Take your dog to an animal hospital like Norwin Veterinary Hospital immediately if any of these signs make themselves known in your dog.

Trauma

If your dog has experienced trauma, it is best to take the dog into the veterinarian as soon as possible. Trauma can be anything from falling from over 5 feet high, getting hit by a bicycle, getting into a dogfight, an many other things. The problem is that dogs are extremely tenacious animals and so may not show signs of problems immediately, but they can show signs later. Internal bleeding is a very common consequence of trauma, which needs to be taken care of immediately.

Eating/Drinking Patterns

If your dog has skipped eating or drinking for 24 hours, then it is time to take the dog to the veterinarian. There is a good chance that your dog is having a heart or stomach problem if they are skipping meals. It is important to note normal behavior as far eating habits, and if something out of the ordinary happens to the eating habits of your dog, then something is likely wrong, and the dog needs a veterinarian. 


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