The Top Three Emergency Veterinarian Visits

The top vet emergency visits may not be what you think.

Many pet owners agree that there’s nothing more stressful than having to rush their animal to an emergency veterinary hospital. It’s a time when every second counts.

If at all possible, emergency veterinary hospitals want pet owners to call ahead of time so the medical team can get mobilized.

Here are the top emergency visits that veterinarians and their techs in the front lines see most of all.

 

Gastroenteritis

Cases of diarrhea and vomiting are a common visit at an emergency veterinary clinic. In fact, most hospitals see it every single day. While a variety of things can trigger these symptoms, vets agree that many of these cases stem from dietary causes.

 

Trauma

When it comes to trauma, at the top of the list are dog bite wounds. These injuries can happen when dogs get into a scuffle at the dog beach or dog park.

“Dog owners really need to be careful going to these social places. Personally, I don’t even do it. Even though your dog is trained, that doesn’t mean other dogs are,” said professional San Diego dog trainer and founder of Performance K9 Training David Greene. “For me, it’s just not worth the risk.”

While dogs come in with their share of bite wounds, similar cases come in with cats. These are cat bite abscesses.

Other trauma cases are when an animal is struck by a car.

 

Toxicity

Emergency veterinarians frequently see toxicity cases. From cats that ingest Lilies to Oleander, to dogs that ingest things like raisins or chocolates. Another typical case is dogs that get into rodent bait.

Veterinarians often treat dogs who ingest their owner’s medication. This can happen if the owner drops a pill accidentally or the dog chews into a bottle.

Other things that are toxic and dangerous to pets include:

  • Items with caffeine (like chocolate)
  • Citrus
  • Avocados
  • Grapes and raisins
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Onions, chives or garlic
  • Corn on the cob
  • Yeast dough
  • Alcohol
  • Anything with Xylitol (the artificial sweetener)

And more.

For more information about animal toxicities and pet safety, visit the ASPCA.