10 Common Pet Emergencies in Pleasant Hill, CA

Pleasant Hill, California has a lot to offer pet owners, with long, warm summer months and a charming, walkable downtown! Knowing that pet emergencies can happen anyplace and anytime, VEG serves the East Bay area with an emergency and urgent care hospital for pets, right on Contra Costa Blvd. in Pleasant Hill.

Being prepared is key to providing the best care for your beloved companion. In Pleasant Hill, CA, pet owners can face a range of emergencies that require fast attention. This blog educates pet owners about common emergencies, their signs, and the importance of seeking professional vet help.

If your pet is experiencing an emergency or is in need of urgent care, don’t hesitate to call VEG Pleasant Hill at 925-384-2110 for expert veterinary guidance and care. Let us know you’re coming in to save precious time in an emergency.

Here are 10 of the most common pet emergencies we see in the Pleasant Hill, California area:

1. CHOKING AND BREATHING ISSUES

Choking or difficulty breathing are emergencies that require immediate attention. Signs include:

• Blue-tinged tongue
• Drooling
• Excessive coughing

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s critical to act quickly. Take your pet to VEG immediately, and keep them calm and avoid putting pressure on their throat. VEG Pleasant Hill is equipped to handle animal, avian, and reptile emergencies with prompt care.

2. TRAUMATIC INJURIES

Accidents, such as being hit by a car or a fall, can lead to severe injuries. Symptoms include:

• Limping
• Reluctance to move
• Visible wounds

Minimize your pet’s movement and keep them warm and comfortable during transport to VEG Pleasant Hill, where our team provides comprehensive emergency vet care.

3. POISONING

Household items, such as certain plants, human medications, and some foods, can be toxic to pets. Symptoms of poisoning vary but often include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. It’s critical to identify the substance if possible and contact VEG Pleasant Hill immediately. Our emergency vets can guide you on the next steps and provide essential treatment for your pet.

4. SEIZURES

Seizures can be alarming to witness, but best for pet owners to stay calm. A seizure can show signs like:

• Loss of consciousness
• Twitching
• Unusual behavior

Seizures in pets can be caused by various health issues, including epilepsy. If your pet is experiencing a seizure, keep them safe from injury and note the duration. Afterward, contact VEG Pleasant Hill for further evaluation and treatment.

5. GASTROINTESTINAL ISSUES

Gastrointestinal problems, like bloat or blockages, may show signs including:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

Your pet’s health can deteriorate rapidly so emergency veterinary care is essential to your pet’s well-being. At VEG Pleasant Hill, we can diagnose and treat these serious issues.

6. ALLERGIC REACTIONS

Allergies in pets can arise from insect bites, medications, or other allergens. Symptoms can vary depending on the allergen, but commonly include swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing. Your quick response is crucial. If you suspect your pet is having an allergic reaction, contact VEG Pleasant Hill for immediate advice and treatment.

7. HEATSTROKE

Heatstroke is no joke. In hot weather, heatstroke poses a serious health risk to your pet. Symptoms include:

• Drooling
• Excessive panting
• Lethargy

To protect your pet from heatstroke, always provide shade, and access to fresh, clean water. If you notice any symptoms and suspect heatstroke, cool your pet gradually with water and contact our VEG animal hospital in Pleasant Hill, CA immediately.

8. EYE EMERGENCIES

Eye emergencies can include injuries, infections, or sudden blindness. Symptoms are visible discomfort, redness, or cloudiness. Eye issues can worsen quickly, so bring your pet in for prompt veterinary attention. If you notice any changes in your pet’s eyes, VEG Pleasant Hill can provide the necessary care.

9. URINARY ISSUES

If your pet is having difficulty urinating or you notice blood in their urine, it can indicate a urinary issue. These symptoms can be painful for your pet and can lead to severe complications. Treat this as an emergency; quick diagnosis and treatment for urinary issues are crucial. VEG Pleasant Hill’s emergency veterinary team is ready to assist 24-hours a day.

10. LABOR AND BIRTHING DIFFICULTIES

When your pet is having a baby, it should be a happy, exciting time. But if your pet is having difficulty during labor, such as prolonged labor or distress, it can endanger both the mother and puppies or kittens. If you notice any complications during your pet’s labor, it’s essential to seek help. VEG Pleasant Hill can provide expert care in these delicate situations.

PREPARING FOR EMERGENCIES

Always have a pet first aid kit and know the basics of pet CPR. Keep VEG Pleasant Hill’s contact information handy for quick access in emergencies.

Our ER-trained team is fully equipped to handle an array of pet emergencies at any time.

CONTACT VETERINARY EMERGENCY GROUP PLEASANT HILL

VEG Pleasant Hill is the emergency and urgent care clinic for pets that’s always open, even on holidays! We provide 24/7 access to emergency and urgent care for pets in Contra Costa County and the surrounding San Francisco Bay area. Call us at 925-384-2110 and you’ll speak with a veterinarian who can answer questions about your pet with expert advice. No matter what kind of pet you have, you can walk in for immediate triage. Your pet’s health and well-being are our top priority!