Acting quickly in an emergency may save your pet’s life.

If your pet is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, contact your nearest BluePearl pet hospital right away.

Most of our hospitals are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with a full medical team to help treat pets in a crisis situation. While some emergencies are apparent, others are not. Knowing more about your pet’s vital signs can help you recognize if your pet needs immediate medical attention. In this video featuring ER veterinarian, Dr. Kevin Kelly, we review basic methods of monitoring your pet’s vitals to help you learn more about some symptoms of distress.

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Be alert to these common pet emergencies:

  • Hit by a car or had any other major traumatic event
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Convulsions or seizures
  • Ingested poison or a toxic substance (here’s a list of common household dangers)
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Uncontrolled bleeding
  • Persistent or severe vomiting or diarrhea
  • Lethargy or lack of appetite
  • Swollen or distended abdomen

Preparing for your emergency visit:

  • If possible, call your local BluePearl before arriving, so we can begin to assess your pet’s condition, help you with directions and prepare our emergency team.
  • If you need help bringing your pet in from the car, let us know and we’ll be ready to assist you.
  • Bring your pet’s medical records, current medication or any historical information.
  • If your pet has eaten something potentially toxic, bring the substance with you if it is safe to do so.
  • Don’t give your pet any medication without first checking with your veterinarian. Many common human medications can be toxic to pets.
  • Be careful handling an injured pet. Even the most gentle pet could bite or scratch you when they’re hurt.
  • Use a carrier to transport your cat.
  • You may transport your dog using a heavy blanket or flattened cardboard as a stretcher.

What to expect when you arrive:

  • As soon as you arrive at our hospital with your pet, our team will perform triage to assess your pet’s condition.
  • To stabilize your pet, we may need to administer IV fluids, pain medications, oxygen therapy and sometimes blood or plasma transfusions.
  • We will inform your family veterinarian about your pet’s condition and treatment at BluePearl.