Emergency Care

Our hospital provides emergency care when your pet has an accident, injury or unexpected reaction occurs. As a general rule, we recommend visiting our hospital for any potential emergency situations. If you are unsure about the possibility of an emergency, seek emergency care to limit the risk of more complex health concerns.

What types of emergencies do you treat?

We offer services based on the emergency needs of your pet and the possible complications associated with their health condition. Emergencies come in different forms, so the treatment solutions we offer depend on the situation and your pet's needs. In many cases, we evaluate the emergency and then take immediate steps to alleviate a pet's pain, discomfort and/or any dangerous symptoms associated with their condition or injury. Common health concerns we treat include:

• Injuries resulting in bleeding
• Allergic reactions
• General pain without an obvious cause
• Bite wounds or similar injuries
• Broken, cracked or bruised bones
• Infections and illnesses
• Skin concerns, such as sudden hair loss, unexpected growths or excessive scratching and licking

When is my pet's condition considered an emergency?

Recognizing when your pet's symptoms are signaling an emergency situation is vital to their health. Not recognizing them early enough can delay treatment and result in more severe injuries or health concerns. Signs of an emergency situation include:

• Bleeding
• Bite wounds
• Obvious broken bones
• Clear illness, such as vomiting or having loose stool
• Signs of pain in your pet, such as limping or making sounds of pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid or slow pulse
• An accident that could cause an injury, even if you do not see obvious bleeding or broken bones
• Swelling

What should I do during an emergency?

When an emergency occurs, stay calm. Panicking will only cause your pet to panic as well, so it's important to talk to them in a calm and even tone. If you notice bleeding, then use a clean cloth and cover the wound. Do not use any antiseptic or cleaning agents. Bring your pet to your hospital immediately for treatment and care. For other emergencies, calm your pet and seek immediate attention. Never give an animal medication unless directed by our veterinary team. If your pet has a medical emergency, please contact us at 416-245-8805.