Friends of the Cornell Riney Canine Health Center,
As dog lovers, we do everything in our power to keep our pups happy, safe, and healthy. While we hope we’ll never face a medical emergency with our dogs, it’s essential to be prepared, as knowing what to look for can make all the difference if something goes wrong.
Whether it’s a middle-of-the-night scare or just a nagging feeling that something isn’t right, recognizing the signs of a true emergency can help you act quickly and get your dog the care they need. This month, I want to share with you some of the top reasons to take your dog to the emergency veterinarian.
Top Reasons to Head to the Emergency Vet:
- Difficulty breathing
If your dog is breathing faster or harder than normal, especially while at rest, or if their breathing sounds noisy or strained, this is a red flag. Other signs include blue-tinged gums or tongue, stretching out the neck to breathe, or excessive belly movement when breathing. Any trouble breathing is an emergency.
- Sudden collapse, weakness, or trouble using limbs
If your dog suddenly collapses, seems very weak, or can’t use one or more legs, they should be seen immediately. These signs could be linked to serious conditions like internal bleeding, neurologic disease, or heart problems.
- Ingesting a toxin or an indigestible object
If your dog has eaten something toxic (such as chocolate, grapes, or medications) or something that could cause a blockage (like a toy or sock), you often need to act quickly. For a suspected toxic substance, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661)—they can help determine if an emergency veterinary visit is necessary.
- Trauma, injury, or acute pain
Obvious injuries like wounds or broken bones need urgent care, but keep in mind that internal injuries, such as after being hit by a car, might not be immediately visible. If your dog is in pain or has been involved in an accident, it's safest to have them checked right away.
- Signs of severe pain or distress
If your dog is crying out, shaking, unable to move, or exhibiting any signs of pain, it’s best to seek veterinary attention right away.
- 6. Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
While occasional vomiting or soft stool can happen, repeated episodes of vomiting or diarrhea in a 24-hour period, especially with signs like blood, lethargy, or refusal to eat, can signal more serious issues.
- Seizures
A first-time seizure should always prompt a veterinary exam. If your dog has multiple seizures in a short time (clusters) or one lasting more than five minutes (status epilepticus), seek emergency care immediately.
- Bloated abdomen with dry-heaving
A swollen belly paired with retching but no vomit may mean bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus or GDV), which can be a life-threatening emergency. Dogs may also appear restless or uncomfortable.
- Difficulty urinating
If your dog is straining to pee or producing no urine, they could have a urinary blockage. This is more common in males and is very painful and potentially deadly if untreated.
- Eye injuries
Dogs' eyes are delicate. If you notice squinting, redness, swelling, pawing at the eye, or sudden cloudiness or discharge, have it evaluated promptly to avoid more serious damage.
- Difficult labor or unexplained vaginal bleeding
If your dog is in active labor and straining without delivering a puppy, or if you notice vaginal bleeding outside of a heat cycle, get help right away.
- Chewing electrical cords
Electrocution from cords can cause serious internal injury or delayed complications like fluid in the lungs.
- Snake bites
Bites from venomous snakes can quickly become life-threatening. If you suspect one, treat it as an emergency.
- Heatstroke symptoms
Excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, or collapse after time in the heat could be signs of heatstroke. Immediate cooling and veterinary care are crucial.
- Severe allergic reactions
Facial swelling, hives, vomiting, or difficulty breathing after a sting, bite, or unknown exposure should be treated as a medical emergency.
Still Not Sure If It’s an Emergency?
- Call your vet or local emergency clinic
Most veterinary hospitals can offer guidance during business hours, and emergency clinics are available after hours to help determine next steps.
- Try a telemedicine service
Teletriage services like VetTriage connect you with a licensed veterinarian (for a fee) who can help determine whether your dog needs to be seen immediately, can wait for urgent care, or is okay to monitor at home. They can also guide you through toxin exposures and when home decontamination is appropriate.
- Trust your instincts
You know your dog better than anyone. If they seem "off" or something just doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to seek help. It’s always better to be safe.
Key Takeaways:
- Know Your Nearest 24/7 Emergency Vet
Save the name, address, and phone number of your local ER vet in your phone and post it somewhere visible at home.
- Keep Poison Control Numbers Handy
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
(Note: consultation fees may apply)
As always, thank you for being a Riney Canine Health Center member. Wishing you and your pups a healthy and safe start to the summer. We look forward to catching up with you next month!
Dr. Aly Cohen
Extension veterinarian
Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center
Other Resources:
Allergy testing and immunotherapy
First-aid for poisonous substances
Heatstroke: A medical emergency
Managing Seizures
Recognizing Pain in Dogs
Recognizing and responding to canine respiratory distress
Vomiting