Pinpoint Canine Emergencies
Edited by Mian Sheilette Ong, Lynn, Eng, Jen M
5 Parts:
A common dilemma among dog owners is how they can determine whether an ailment is an emergency or can wait until the following morning. Your dog cannot speak, so you have to bear the responsibility of identifying canine emergencies. Canine health emergencies are usually upfront but there are still some that may seem like nothing during their onset. A responsible pet parent like you should be aware of certain vet emergencies that your dog may suffer from. It is better to be ready than to regret the moment when you could have done something to save the life of your fur-baby. Your dog has always been there for you. When you know how to pinpoint canine emergencies, you let your dog know and feel that you will always be there no matter what.
Contents
Things to Consider in a Canine Medical Emergency
The following should be considered when assessing a canine medical emergency. Keep calm and read on:
- 1Check the color of your dog's gums. Gums provide a lot of information when it comes to blood circulation.The color could tell you if your dog is in shock, anemic, or is suffering from an internal hemorrhage. Normally, your dog's gums should be moist and pink. If you press the gums lightly with your finger, there should be a sudden white color. It will then return to its pink color after one to two seconds. It's a red flag if your dog has red, grey, blue, or very pale gums. It is wise for you to frequently check your furry companion's gums during moments of relaxation and rest. Treatment should be given immediately if gum color is not normal.
- 2It would be very helpful to call your vet and ask if the situation is in dire need of emergency vet treatment.Keep your vet's number handy. Veterinarians always have phones with them.
- 3Ear infections, hot spots, bladder infections, and broken toenails should be addressed immediately before they worsen or contribute to a bigger ailment.Treat ailments early. There are times when a simple situation can turn into an emergency.
- 4This way, you won't just assume everything is okay when your dog is actually in grave need of veterinary attention.Seek a vet's opinion when in doubt. If your dog shows signs of distress, it would be a safe move to bring him or her to the vet.
How to Pinpoint Canine Emergencies
There are many canine medical emergencies that you should know and understand. Below are common dog ailments and ways you can determine if it is indeed an emergency:
- 1It's a very life threatening emergency for any dog. If you think your dog is suffering from bloat, rush to the vet without question.Abdominal distention, inability to rest comfortably, inability to vomit, panting, restlessness. This group of symptoms belongs to bloat or gastric dilatation with volvulus.
- 2If your dog doesn't breathe for three minutes, then assume the worst. Once you notice that your dog is having difficulty breathing (making noises or puffing his or her lips) you have to rush to the vet.Distressed breathing..Optimal breathing should always be maintained
- 3Toxins sometimes cause seizures and an episode can be fatal to your dog.Seizures. This ailment can be presented as clusters that could then be progressive.
- 4They are no-brainers. Small dogs have to be rushed. Large dogs may seem to be okay at first but should also be treated right away.Major trauma or excessive bleeding. You should definitely take your dog to the vet with these emergencies on the table.
- 5You should rush your dog to the nearest emergency vet clinic.Generalized weakness or collapse. These are signs that your dog may be suffering from hemoabdomen, pericardial infusion, poisoning, anaphylactic shock, organ failure, or Addison's disease.
- 6Repeated diarrhea and vomiting results in dehydration. These can also be signs of an obstruction in the GI tract.Diarrhea and protracted vomiting episodes. If the liquid that comes out of your dog has blood, rush to the vet.
- 7This infection is painful but is not a life threatening situation. However, it is still best if the vet sees your dog very soon.Difficulty in urinating. A bladder infection is usually signified by this symptom.
- 8This may indicate an injury in the spinal cord. The dog usually becomes paralyzed partially or completely. You should see the vet immediately.Inability to use hind legs. This is a condition common to breeds with long backs and short legs (Corgis, Dachshunds).
- 9If your dog doesn't eat or drink, there is definitely something wrong. You can rush your dog to the vet or not, but seeing the vet is imperative since dehydration is imminent.Not drinking or eating. This is a judgement call for you as the owner.
- 10It may be because of Kennel cough, rat bait exposure, or pneumonia. Go to your vet to be finally sure.Coughing bouts. This is another judgement call for you.
- 11Immediately take your dog to the vet once you see your fur-baby eating something like raisins, onions, and human medications.Poisoning. This is definitely an emergency case.
- 12Intense pain. If there is vocalization, limping, panting, and other signs of pain, rush to the vet.
Quick Lists of Canine Health Emergencies
The following are signs that your dog needs to be seen by a licensed veterinarian:
- 1Neck or facial swelling
2
Distressed respiration
3
Vomiting excessively
4
Seizure episodes
5
Loss of consciousness from a head injury
6
Blue or pale gums (if your dog has pigmented gums, check the underside of the eyelid)
7
Hives
8
Inability to walk or collapse
9
Poisoning (from eating gums and chocolates, overdose of medication)
10
Eye injury
11
Not able to urinate
12
Abnormal pupil size
13
Bleeding excessively
14
Heatstroke
15
Body temperature below 99 or above 104 degrees Fahrenheit
16
Dry heaving
17
Bloated condition of the abdomen
18
Discharge from vagina
19
Excessive licking of the vagina
Symptoms that are non-critical but do need a vet's evaluation
- 1Pain during urination
- 2Blood in the urine
- 3Lethargy
- 4Diarrhea
- 5Problems in maintaining balance
- 6Vomiting
- 7Abnormal changes in urination, thirst, or appetite
- 8Scooting, hair loss, or scratching
- 9Bite wounds
- 10Fight wounds (large, bleeding, and infected)
- 11Worms in vomit
- 12Lumps and abnormal growths
- 13Abnormal behavior patterns
- 14Nose and eye discharge
- 15Excessive coughing and sneezing
- 16Changes in body condition or weight
- 17Worms in stool
Tips
- Never hesitate to make a judgment call for your dog's health and safety.
- Always have your vet's number handy.
- Assemble a dog first aid kit so you can administer emergency relief until the vet arrives.
- Monitor your dog at all times to prevent accidents and curious plays.
If you have problems with any of the steps in this article, please ask a question for more help, or post in the comments section below.
