After Hours and Emergencies

What is an Emergency?

Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea

• This will lead to dehydration and collapse
• Investigations would be required to rule out cause
• Possibilities are foreign bodies and Addison’s both of which are life threatening

Unproductive vomiting

• This can be life threatening
• Affects deep- chested breeds of dog primarily
• Animal is trying to be sick but nothing is produced
• High suspicion of gastric dilation and torsion
• Animal is usually agitated and the abdomen may be bloated and tender
• Requires surgery to correct

Straining to pass urine

• • • Trying to pass urine but not managing to pass anything
    • Repeated efforts and very agitated
    • Differentiate from cystitis
    • Abdomen tender
    • Concern is that there is a blockage and this would ultimately cause kidney failure if left untreated

Breathing problems

• • • Panting and open mouthed breathing are both signs for concern
    • Can be a sign of heart problems , overheating or lung disease

Collapse or fainting

• • • Unable to stand or respond properly

Bleeding

• • • Initially stem the flow with pressure and apply a bandage if possible
    • If you get bleeding through this bandage apply another on top

Fits

• • • Fits or seizures are uncontrolled muscular twitches
    • Can be a local group of muscles or it may involve the whole body
    • May cause loss of consciousness
    • Can be very dangerous if the fit is prolonged

Whelping

• • • • Seek advice if the animal is straining to give birth but no babies are emerging
      • If contractions are strong for 45 mins + with no baby there may be an obstruction
      • Production of a mucky or bloody discharge would be another indication of a problem
      • Going past the due date should always be investigated
      • Twitching and tremoring could also be an indication of eclampsia and must be investigated
      • Look for a placenta for each puppy

Pyometra

• • • • This affects unneutered females usually 6-8wks post season
      • Usually causes fever , drinking more , poor appetite possibly vomiting
      • Can be associated with a mucky vaginal discharge
      • Surgery may be required

Orthopaedic problem

• • • • Sudden onset lameness is a concern especially if a known trauma has occurred. This would raise the suspicion of fractures
      • Slipped discs can also be very painful and can cause paralysis

Poisonings

• • • • Always phone the surgery if your pet has ingested any unsuitable object whether its medications or objects
      • Prompt action is always the best option
      • Never try to make a dog vomit unless instructed to do so.