10 Common Pet Emergencies in Anaheim, CA

Rain or shine, our pets certainly know how to keep us on our toes! They spring on an emergency when you least expect it. Our favorite mantra for such situations is “Stay Calm and VEG On!” For pet parents of dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, or exotics in Anaheim, California, that would mean knowing “Is this a pet emergency?” and where to seek immediate care when you need it… any time of day or night. That’s why Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) in Anaheim Hills is open 24 hours for prompt, expert care every day, even holidays. Call us at (714) 616-5570 to speak to a vet who can answer your questions or just walk in — no appointments are taken.

Here’s a look at ten common animal and pet emergencies that may need immediate attention to keep your bestie healthy and happy.

1. Pet Has Difficulty Breathing

If your pet shows signs such as heavy panting, gasping, or a blue tongue, it’s vital to seek emergency care immediately. These symptoms of breathing difficulty could indicate severe conditions like heart failure, asthma, or a foreign object lodged in the throat. At VEG Anaheim Hills, our veterinary team is equipped to provide immediate care to stabilize your pet’s breathing.

2. Pet Has Severe Vomiting or Diarrhea

Occasional vomiting or diarrhea may not always signal an emergency, but if it’s severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or the presence of blood in vomit or diarrhea, it’s time to call VEG Anaheim Hills. These could be signs of:

• Gastrointestinal blockages
• Infections
• Poisoning

Any of these reasons for diarrhea or vomiting require immediate veterinary attention.

3. Pet Has Unexplained Lethargy

If your pet is unusually tired, unresponsive, or refuses to eat or drink, it could be a sign of a serious underlying issue. If your pet is overly tired, the more serious concerns are:

• Heart disease
• Infection
• Kidney disease

Quick intervention from a licensed emergency veterinarian is crucial to diagnosing and treating the cause of your pet’s lethargy.

4. Pet May Have Suspected Poisoning

Anaheim pet parents should be aware of the common household items and plants that can be toxic to animals and pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested something poisonous, such as chocolate, xylitol, or antifreeze, contact VEG Anaheim Hills immediately. Prompt care can prevent more severe health issues.

5. Pet Has Trauma

Whether it’s a fall, a fight with another animal, or a car accident, physical trauma requires immediate veterinary attention. Even if there are no visible wounds, internal injuries can pose serious risks. Bring your pet immediately to Veterinary Emergency Group in Anaheim Hills, we’re equipped to handle such emergencies, providing diagnostics and care for trauma cases.

6. Pet Experiences Seizures

Seeing your pet experience a seizure can be frightening. Seizures can be caused by epilepsy, poisoning or a number of underlying health issues. During a seizure, pets may display uncontrollable shaking, drooling, or even loss of consciousness. It’s crucial to keep them safe and comfortable during an episode. After stabilizing your pet, the team at VEG Anaheim Hills will work to diagnose the cause of the seizures and provide appropriate treatment.

7. Pet Has Eye Injuries

Eye injuries in pets can worsen quickly and lead to vision loss if not treated promptly. Signs include:

• Excessive tearing
• Redness
• Squinting

Our top-rated emergency veterinarian staff in Anaheim Hills offers emergency eye care to address injuries and prevent further complications.

8. Pet Displays Inability to Urinate or Defecate

Oh poo! If your pet can’t pee or poop, this can be a sign of a urinary blockage or severe constipation. Both of these can be life-threatening conditions requiring immediate vet attention. Symptoms include straining to urinate or defecate, discomfort,or crying out. Our veterinary ER-trained staff in Anaheim Hills can provide emergency relief and treatment.

9. Pet is Bleeding Excessively

If your pet is bleeding heavily from a wound or surgery site, applying pressure and getting them to VEG Anaheim Hills quickly is essential. Our 24-hour vet team can help control the bleeding and treat the underlying cause to prevent further health complications.

10. Pet May Have Had a Heatstroke

A sunny beach day is great, but Anaheim’s warm temps may put pets at risk of heatstroke, especially during the summer months. Look out for symptoms like:

• Drooling
• Excessive panting
• Lethargy
• Collapse (in severe cases)

Click here to learn about what to do in case of a heatstroke. That article is specifically for cat heatstroke, but we can tell you that immediate cooling with cool water (not freezing), hydration, and fast veterinary care at VEG Anaheim Hills can be lifesaving for any kind of pet.

Veterinary Emergency Group is here for pet care when it matters most

These are some of the most common emergencies that pet owners in the heart of Orange County should know about. Seeking immediate, skilled help can significantly impact your pet’s health, safety, and recovery. Always keep the number for VEG Anaheim Hills, (714) 616-5570, in your contacts for quick access to professional and compassionate emergency care. Remember, it’s best to play it safe and seek veterinary advice when it comes to the health of your beloved pet. Your prompt action and the urgent care expertise of the team at VEG, Anaheim Hills can make all the difference. Whether you own a dog, cat, reptile, bird, rabbit, or any kind of exotic animal, the VEG staff is ready 24 hours a day to handle emergencies and urgent care for pets. Within our open-concept hospital, you can stay with your pet the entire time. Remember to save us to your contacts!