Is it an Emergency?

Sometimes, outside normal hours, it is difficult to decide whether urgent attention is needed. You can always call and ask for advice.

You should phone the vet if:

• your pet seems weak, is reluctant to get up, or is dull and depressed.
   

• there is difficulty breathing, or it is noisy or rapid, or if there is continual coughing causing distress.
   

• there is repeated vomiting, particularly with young or elderly animals. Diarrhea is less serious, unless severe, bloody or the animal seems weak or unwell. Feed small amounts of a bland diet (boiled chicken or white fish) and see a vet if it persists for over a day.
   

• your dog appears to be in severe pain or discomfort.
   

• your pet is trying to urinate or defecate and is unable to. Blockage of the bladder sometimes occurs, especially in males, and can kill if not treated urgently.
   

• there are sudden difficulties with balance.
   

• a female with suckling puppies is agitated, shaking and shivering and will not settle. It could be eclampsia, which needs urgent treatment.