What to do in an emergency
Quick steps for while you're on your way to us or waiting for the vet. These buy time but don't replace an exam.
Call, don't wait until morning
Tell us the animal's species, weight, what happened and when. The vet will advise you before you arrive.
Don't give human medication
Paracetamol, ibuprofen and no-shpa are dangerous for cats and dogs. Don't give anything without a vet's instruction.
Limit movement
After a fall or being hit by a car — place on a hard surface (board, box lid), don't bend the spine.
Bleeding — apply pressure, not a tourniquet
Folded gauze or a clean cloth with steady palm pressure. A tourniquet is applied only by a vet.
Poisoning — bring the packaging
Bring the bottle, blister pack, or remainder of the plant or food with you: the substance name changes the treatment.
Seizures — clear away objects
Don't restrain the animal by force and don't reach into its mouth. Time the seizure and note how long it lasts.
Bloating in a large dog, open-mouth breathing in a cat, and urinary retention — conditions you come in for right away, any time of day.