What should I do in an emergency?

In any case of emergency with your cat or dog you should contact the surgery for advice. If you are unsure if it is an emergency, you can ring your vets and ask.

In any situation where you think your animal needs to be seen, it is always best to phone first, so that the vet can prepare for your arrival.

If it is out of hours we can provide you with the PETS emergency number, so have your pen and paper handy.

Try to remain calm and do not put yourself or your pet in any more danger.

Remember that injured animals usually become frightened and because they are in pain they may bite people who are

trying to help them.

Approach the animal with caution; if you do get bitten you should see your doctor.

Never give human medicines to animals and unless you are told to do so by your vet, do not give them any food or water

as they may need an anaesthetic. Only ever apply basic first aid.

You should ring us if your animal is:

· Weak, doesn't want to get up, doesn't want to play

· Having problems breathing or their breathing is noisy or faster than usual

· Coughing and cannot stop

· Being repeatedly sick

· In a lot of pain

· Having trouble passing urine or faeces

· Having problems keeping their balance

· Involved in a road traffic accident

· Is bleeding

· Has a possible broken bone

· Has a burn

· Has been poisoned

· Has a swollen stomach

· Has something stuck in their throat

· Has something toxic on their fur

· Is suffering from heatstroke

· Is having fits

· Has been in a fight

· Has an eye injury

· Has had an electric shock

Moving an injured cat or small dog

Place one hand under the chin, on the front of the chest, and the other behind the back legs. You may want to cover them with a thick towel first.

If you have one available you can put the cat into a basket or box.

Moving a large dog

Use a coat or blanket as a stretcher and try to slide them gently onto it.

Catching an injured cat

If you need to catch the cat try to block off escape routes and encourage them into an enclosed space or a cat basket. If necessary cover the cat with a towel to get them into a basket