How To Handle Holiday Medical Emergencies For Pets
The holidays bring large feasts and get-togethers with friends and family. These events can wreak havoc on pets, both physically and psychologically. It is important to have the number of an emergency vet within easy reach, and to know when to seek medical attention for a pet during the holidays. Emergency vet visits are more expensive than visits to the vet during normal business hours; however, in an emergency situation, a pet's health is worth the added cost.
Signs and Symptoms
It is important to know what signs and symptoms to look out for. If a dog or cat shows signs of stress, such as snapping or hiding, this is generally not a reason for a trip to the emergency vet. This is likely a result of overstimulation from too many visitors and too much activity. Likewise, a reduced appetite over the holidays may also be nothing to worry about. However, if a pet is vomiting or has uncontrollable diarrhea, this is cause for concern. If the pet is lethargic and unresponsive, this is another cause for concern. Profuse bleeding, large cuts and other similar issues are also emergency situations. A call to the vet for an appointment or advice over the phone is in order. A pet owner is the individual who is most familiar with the pet's behavior; if the pet parent believes there is cause for emergency medical care, there usually is.
Home Remedies
If it is not feasible to get to the vet right away, there are a few things that pet owners can do to keep Fido or Fifi comfortable until medical attention can be procured. If a pet has ingested something they shouldn't from the dinner table, vomiting can easily be induced from home. A few teaspoons of peroxide should be given to the pet; the animal will not appreciate this, but it is necessary to preserve the animal's health. In the case of ingestion of chemicals, vomiting should not be induced, and it is imperative to get medical care immediately. For run-of-the-mill diarrhea and indigestion in pets, a teaspoon or two of pumpkin in the pet's normal meal will harden stools. Switching out normal pet food with boiled rice and ground beef can also calm an upset tummy. For minor cuts and scratches, some antibacterial ointment and a bandage can stave off infection pending a vet appointment. Many skin problems, such as ringworm and hot spots, can be treated with tea tree oil until the vet's office opens.
For more information, contact a center like Animal House Veterinary Hospital.
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