Pet Emergency Information
Critical information every pet owner should have saved. Bookmark this page.
Emergency Phone Numbers
When to Go to the Emergency Vet
Seek immediate veterinary care if your pet shows any of these signs:
● Difficulty breathing or choking
● Seizures or convulsions
● Unconscious or collapsed
● Severe bleeding that will not stop
● Suspected poisoning
● Swollen or distended abdomen
● Hit by a car or severe trauma
● Cannot stand or walk
● Straining to urinate with no output
● Prolonged vomiting or diarrhea with blood
● Eye injury or eye popping out
● Broken bones
Common Pet Toxins
Foods Toxic to Dogs
- Chocolate (especially dark/baker's)
- Grapes and raisins
- Xylitol (sugar-free gum, candy)
- Onions and garlic
- Macadamia nuts
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Avocado
Foods Toxic to Cats
- Onions and garlic
- Lilies (extremely dangerous)
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Raw eggs and raw fish
- Grapes and raisins
- Dog food (long-term)
Household Dangers
- Antifreeze (extremely toxic)
- Rat poison and pesticides
- Cleaning products
- Human medications (NSAIDs, acetaminophen)
- Essential oils (especially for cats)
- Fertilizers and herbicides
Toxic Plants
- Lilies (cats - kidney failure)
- Sago palm (liver failure)
- Tulips and hyacinths
- Azaleas and rhododendrons
- Oleander
- Dieffenbachia
Basic Pet First Aid
If Your Pet Is Choking
- Open the mouth carefully and look for the obstruction
- If visible, try to gently remove with fingers or tweezers
- For dogs: perform a modified Heimlich (thrust upward on the abdomen)
- Rush to the vet if you cannot dislodge the object
If Your Pet Is Bleeding
- Apply firm, direct pressure with a clean cloth
- Maintain pressure for at least 5 minutes
- Do not remove the cloth if blood soaks through; add more on top
- Elevate the wound above the heart if possible
- Get to a vet as quickly as possible
If Your Pet Is Having a Seizure
- Stay calm. Do not try to restrain your pet
- Move objects away that could cause injury
- Do not put anything in their mouth
- Time the seizure - if longer than 3 minutes, seek emergency care
- Keep the environment quiet and dim after the seizure
- Contact your vet after any seizure
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult a veterinarian for medical emergencies.