We understand how frightening it is when your beloved pet isn't well. At VEHC, we're here for you with critical care and unconditional compassion. This guide is designed to help you quickly assess if your pet's symptoms require immediate veterinary attention. When in doubt, it's always safest to call us.
Emergency Symptom Guide
CRITICAL - Come Immediately
Difficulty Breathing
Gasping, choking, blue/purple gums
Severe Bleeding
Won't stop after 5 minutes of pressure
Unconscious/Unresponsive
Won't wake up, collapsed, non-responsive
Active Seizures
Currently seizing or cluster seizures
Don't call, just come
Bloated Abdomen
Swollen belly, retching without vomiting
Hit by Vehicle
Any trauma from car, even if walking
Heat Stroke
Heavy panting, drooling, weakness in heat
URGENT - Call now
Toxin Ingestion
Chocolate, xylitol, medications, antifreeze, lillies (cats)
Eye Injuries
Squinting, swollen, discharge, trauma to eye
Persistent Vomiting
Can't keep water down, blood in vomit
Suspected Fracture
Limb at odd angle, can't bear weight
Unable to Urinate
Straining to urinate or defecate without production, especially male cats
Severe Pain
Crying, can't get comfortable, aggressive when touched
Bloody Diarrhea
Large amounts of blood, black tarry stool
NEEDS CARE - Visit Soon
Single Vomit Episode
Otherwise acting normal
Minor Limping
Still bearing some weight
Call if worsens
Decreased Appetite
Less than 24 hours, still drinking
Soft Stool
No blood, still eating/drinking
What to Bring
To help us provide the fastest and most effective care, please try to bring the following if possible
Your Pet (Safely)
Use carrier for cats, leash for dogs injured pets may bite.
Indentification
Driver's license for registration
Medical History
Any records, current medications, vaccine history
What They Ate
Bring packaging if toxin ingestion suspected
Did your pet digest a toxin?
Call poison control on your way to VEHC.
ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435