Emergencies, by nature, are never planned, and they can be frightening for both you and your animal companion. Knowing how to recognize when your pet needs urgent help and understanding what to do in those critical first moments can save valuable time. It can even save lives. At Animals First Veterinary Hospital, your Haddon Township, NJ, vet clinic, we want every pet parent to feel confident and prepared in case of an emergency.
This guide explains the essentials of pet critical care, from identifying the signs of a crisis to administering basic first aid and getting your pet safely to a veterinarian.
Recognizing Critical Pet Emergencies
Critical care situations often develop suddenly, and knowing the signs can help you act quickly. Seek veterinary attention immediately if your pet shows any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing, choking, or blue-tinged gums
- Severe bleeding that doesn’t stop with gentle pressure
- Collapse, fainting, or seizures
- A bloated, hard abdomen (possible gastric torsion in dogs)
- Inability to urinate or pass stool
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea, especially if blood is present
- Trauma, such as being hit by a car or falling from a height
- Ingestion of toxic substances, plants, or human medications
- Sudden weakness, staggering, or paralysis
When in doubt, it’s always safest to treat the situation as an emergency. Click here to check out our past pet emergency blog.
What to Do in a Pet Emergency
Stay Calm
Your pet can sense your emotions, and panicking will only heighten their stress. Take a deep breath before acting.
Call Ahead
If possible, contact Animals First Veterinary Hospital or the nearest emergency clinic before arriving. This allows the veterinary team to prepare for immediate care.
Transport Safely
- For small pets, place them in a secure carrier.
- For larger dogs, use a blanket or board as a stretcher if they cannot walk.
- Avoid putting your face near your pet’s mouth—pain and fear can cause even gentle pets to bite.
Provide First Aid if Needed
- Bleeding: Apply firm pressure with clean cloth or gauze.
- Choking: If safe, look in the mouth for visible objects; avoid blind finger sweeps.
- Seizures: Keep your pet away from hazards, but do not restrain them.
- Poisoning: Call a veterinarian or poison hotline immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed.
Preparing an At-Home Emergency Kit
Every pet parent should keep a basic emergency kit on hand. Include pet specific items. Your vet can recommend what to add, but here are a few suggestions:
- Gauze pads and rolls
- Adhesive tape and bandages
- Digital thermometer (rectal)
- Tweezers and scissors
- Saline solution for flushing wounds or eyes
- Hydrogen peroxide (for specific poisoning cases, only under veterinary direction)
- A muzzle or soft cloth for restraint
- Your veterinarian’s contact info and the nearest 24-hour emergency clinic phone number
Visit the ASPCA site here for helpful information about pet emergencies. The Red Cross has a great pet first aid app. You can find it on app stores here for Android and here for Apple users. Or, just text “GETPET” to 90999.
Preventing Emergencies Before They Happen
While not all emergencies are preventable, taking precautions can definitely reduce risks. Here are a few tips:
- Keep toxic foods, plants, and chemicals out of reach.
- Provide year-round parasite prevention.
- Supervise outdoor play to prevent accidents and injuries.
- Avoid leaving pets in hot cars, even briefly.
- Schedule regular wellness exams to catch early signs of illness before they escalate.
FAQs About Pet Critical Care
1. What should I do if I’m unsure whether my pet’s issue is an emergency?
Always err on the side of caution and contact your veterinarian. Waiting can make conditions worse.
2. How can I transport a large injured dog alone?
Use a blanket as a sling or stretcher to move them safely into your vehicle.
3. Should I keep human medications on hand for emergencies?
No—many human medications are toxic to pets. Only use treatments prescribed by your veterinarian.
4. What should I do if my pet eats something poisonous?
Contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately. Bring the substance or packaging with you.
5. Can I learn pet CPR?
Yes. Pet CPR and first-aid courses are available and highly recommended for pet owners.
Make An Appointment At Our Haddon Township, NJ Vet Clinic
Pet emergencies are stressful, but preparation and knowledge give you the power to respond effectively. Recognizing warning signs, providing safe transport, and acting quickly can save your pet’s life. At Animals First Veterinary Hospital, your Haddon Township, NJ, animal hospital we are here to provide compassionate critical care when your pet needs it most. If you’ve been searching for a “vet near me” prepared to handle emergencies, you can trust us to be there for you and your companion when every moment counts.
Click here to go to our Service page and find out more about our animal clinic and the pets we treat. You can also learn about our critical care and emergency pet services here, or our membership plans here.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment tailored to your pet.