Pet Emergency?
Anyone who has ever pulled out a credit card at the emergency clinic for something that wasn’t as dire as it seemed comes away wishing for a better knowledge of what constitutes an urgent situation -- and what doesn’t. But as big an “ouch” as a non-emergency can be to the budget, it’s a lot better than the opposite situation: an emergency that goes untreated until it’s too late for your pet. But how can you tell? The signs of a healthy pet are pretty apparent to an observant pet owner: bright, clear eyes with no sign of discharge; clean ears, free of build up or smell; a mouth not overpowering by its odour, with pink gums free of infection; a nose that appears moist, with no discharge; a shiny coat, with unblemished skin below that snaps back easily when pulled away from the shoulders. A healthy attitude, with normal appetite and thirst are part of the package, too, without signs of intestinal upset. No lameness, no swelling. No lumps, no bumps. No heavy panting. Anything to the contrary is reason to have a pet checked. But is it a “go to the vet this very minute” emergency? The “see the vet now” indicators include seizure, fainting or collapse, as well as any bloating or suspected poisoning (including rodent poison, snail bait or human medication). Snake or tick bites, too, demand immediate attention. Cats in particular can be fatally sensitive to insecticides (such as flea-control medications that are safe for dogs), petroleum-based products and common human medications. Sometimes situations that might not seem urgent really are, such as eye injuries or allergic reactions -- swelling around the face or hives. A single incident of vomiting or diarrhoea is probably nothing, but anything more than two or three times within an hour or so could indicate a serious problem. Other signs of possible serious conditions are breathing problems, chronic coughing or difficulties urinating or defecating, the latter especially in cats. Animals can sometimes seem fine after accidents, such as being hit by a car, exposed to extreme heat, or bitten. Even if your pet looks OK, you need to take him to a veterinarian to check for internal injuries that can kill if left untreated. There are also situations that may not be life-threatening but are certainly painful enough to warrant immediate veterinary attention. Some of the signs of an animal in pain include panting, laboured breathing, lethargy or restlessness, loss of appetite, aggression, hiding, or crying out. While it may be possible to wait until your regular veterinarian is available, put yourself in your pet’s place. Don’t let your pet suffer! When in doubt, call your veterinarian. It’s better to make a trip you needn’t have made than to miss the one you should have made.
Christmas Hours - The Gap Vet Surgery will be closed 24th, 25th, and 26th December and 31st December and 1st January. Wishing all our clients a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year ! Scott and Chris
Services we offer :-
•Veterinary treatments, surgery and hospitalisation • Small animal Dentistry • Veterinary diagnostic pathology and radiology • Sales of Pet products, food and accessories • PennHIP scheme accreditation • Cat Boarding • Loads of friendly advice!
www.thegapvet.com.au
www.facebook.com/thegapvet
VETERINARY SURGERY 1104 Waterworks Road The Gap 4061 website: http://www.westernecho.com.au
The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 15