Pet Care – Pet Emergency

Vet Questions – When To See The Vet

Visiting your vet can get very expensive. Many of us face the situation where our pet suddenly becomes ill and if we go to the vet, we know we are going to have to spend money we had not planned to spend. Often there are a lot of things we can do to help a pet in distress without going to the vet. Just for reference though here is a list of situations when you need to take your pet to the vet:

Vomitting – The most common cause of vomitting is often eating something that upsets the stomach. Vets recommend that if your pet vomits but otherwise seems healthy, take aways its food for 12 to 24 hours and give only water. If no further vomitting occurs, give your pet frequent, small feedings of its regular diet and gradually increase to the normal amount. If your pet can’t keeep water down, is lethargic, has abdominal pain or a fever, or still can’t digest food, go to your vet. Even simple cases can lead to death from dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

Diarrhea – Diarrhea can be symptom of many things. Mild cases may be solved with an at home treatment, but see a vet immediately for diarrhea that is bloody, persistent or is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomitting, lethargy or pain. Use the same treatment as for vomitting (withholding food but giving water). Then give your pet a diet of bland foods for two to three days. We used to give our dog rice.

Limping – If your pet is limping but will let you examine them and doesn’t seem to be too much in pain, try letting it rest for a few days. If their walking begins to improve, slowly work up to a normal walking routine. Never give your pet over the counter-pain-medication without first checking with the vet. Go to the vet right away if your pet can’t put any weight on its limb, is in great pain, or has a fever.

Here are the warning signs offered by Dr. Halligan , a vet, who writes for Parade Magazine:

WARNING SIGNS: These symptoms are among those that often require a trips to the vet -

Discharge from the eyes, nose, mouth, ears, or other body opening

Fever of any kind

Foul odor from the mouth, ears or skin

Sudden increase or decrease in water consumption or appetite

Change in attitude or energy

Sudden weight loss or gain

Stiffness or difficulty rising

Any lumps or bumps

See our post on Pet Safety – Toxins In Your Home and Garden at Naturesway4pets.com

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