Panic to Prepared: What To Do If You Have a Pet Emergency in Colorado Springs

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A pet emergency can happen without warning, and in those frantic seconds, knowing exactly what to do can make all the difference. At North Springs Veterinary Referral Center in Colorado Springs, we know how overwhelming pet emergencies can feel. That’s why we’re here to guide you through the steps you should take if your dog, cat, or other companion animal needs urgent care.

Recognizing a Pet Emergency

  • First and foremost, it’s crucial to recognize what constitutes a true emergency. While minor scrapes and issues can often wait for a regular vet appointment, the following warrant immediate attention:
  • Uncontrolled Bleeding or Deep Wounds: Any bleeding that doesn’t stop within a few minutes, or wounds that are large or deep.
  • Trauma: Hit by a car, fall, head trauma, fights or bites, or other types of major traumas.
  • Difficulty Breathing or Choking: Labored breathing, gasping, or any sign of airway obstruction.
  • Loss of Consciousness: Unresponsiveness or inability to wake up.
  • Seizures: Especially if they are prolonged, multiple, or new.
  • Collapse or Weakness: Inability to stand or severe lethargy.
  • Signs of Extreme Pain: Whimpering, howling, or aggression when touched.
  • Ingestion of Toxic Substances or Objects: Known or suspected ingestion of poisons, medications, or objects. Contact ASPCA or Pet Poison Helpline if you are concerned your pet ingested a toxin!
  • Severe Vomiting or Diarrhea: Especially if accompanied by blood, weakness, or lethargy.
  • Bloated or Distended Abdomen: Particularly in large breed dogs, this could indicate a life-threatening condition called bloat.
  • Eye Injuries: Any trauma or sudden changes to the eye.
  • Inability to Urinate or Defecate: Especially if accompanied by straining or pain.

If you are ever unsure, North Springs Veterinary Referral Center’s 24/7 emergency department is here to help! Give us a call anytime and we can help determine if immediate treatment is needed.

Your Colorado Springs Pet Emergency Action Plan

Be Prepared, Not Scared

Having a plan in place before an emergency occurs can significantly reduce stress and improve outcomes. Here’s what every Colorado Springs pet owner should do:

Know Where To Go

Don’t wait for an emergency to start searching. North Springs Veterinary Referral Center offers 24/7 specialized and emergency care when your primary veterinarian’s office is closed or your pet requires advanced treatment.

Contact Information:

Address: 10520 White Diamond Point, Colorado Springs, CO, 80908

Phone: (719) 920-4430

We recommend saving our number in your phone so you’re prepared before an emergency happens.

Call Ahead

If possible, call our emergency department while you are on your way to inform us of the situation. This allows us to prepare for your arrival and provide immediate instructions if needed.

Keep Your Pet’s Records Handy

While the North Springs VRC emergency clinic will focus on immediate care, having your pet’s vaccination history, medication list, and any known medical conditions readily available can be helpful. Consider keeping a digital copy on your phone or a physical copy in an easily accessible location.

Know How to Safely Transport Your Pet

In an emergency, your pet may be in pain or scared. Here are some tips for transport:

  • Approach them calmly and carefully. Avoid direct contact with their mouth if they’re in pain (even the gentlest pet might bite).
  • For small animals, use a carrier. For larger animals, have a plan for safely lifting and transporting them, possibly with the help of another person and a blanket or towel as a makeshift stretcher.
  • If bleeding, apply light pressure with a clean cloth.
  • Bring any medications, records, or information about what happened.

Stay Calm (as much as possible)

Your pet can sense your anxiety, which can further upset them. Take a deep breath and try to remain as calm as possible. Speak to your pet in a soothing voice to help calm them as well.

Pet Insurance and Financial Options

Take the time before an emergency to get pet insurance, or apply for financial options including CareCredit and Scratchpay.

Navigating the Emergency Clinic: What to Expect

Upon arrival at North Springs VRC emergency hospital, a triage nurse will assess your pet’s condition to determine the urgency and severity of the situation. Be prepared to wait, as animals with the most critical conditions will be seen first.

The veterinary emergency team will perform necessary examinations and diagnostics, which may include bloodwork, X-rays, or ultrasound. They will then discuss the treatment plan and associated costs with you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions to fully understand the situation and the proposed treatment. We’ll work with you on the best options for your pet’s care.

Prevention is Key: Reducing the Risk of Pet Emergencies

While emergencies can happen, taking preventative measures can significantly reduce the risks:

  • Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Annual or bi-annual wellness exams can help detect underlying health issues early.
  • Pet-Proofing Your Home: Secure medications, cleaning supplies, human foods, and other potential toxins out of reach. Be mindful of small objects that could be ingested.
  • Secure Fencing and Leash Use: Prevent escapes and potential injuries from traffic or other animals and supervise your pet when outdoors.
Spreading the Word: Helping Our Colorado Springs Pet Community

emergency animal hospital

Community is one of our core values. By sharing this information, we aim to empower pet owners in Colorado Springs to be better prepared for pet emergencies. Feel free to share this blog post with your friends, neighbors, and local online communities. The more informed we all are, the better we can protect our beloved animal companions.

At North Springs Veterinary Referral Center, our team of experienced specialists and emergency veterinary professionals are here when you need us most. We are proud to serve the pets and pet parents of Colorado Springs and surrounding areas with empathy, integrity, and expertise.

If your pet is in distress — don’t wait. Call us right away.