Emergencies

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Emergencies

What to do in an emergency:

1

Stay calm, think and also calm the animal down. Animals can sense your panic. Be careful as a fearful or painful animal can bite, especially after trauma.

2

If there is a lot of haemorrhage, apply some pressure with a towel. Allow for breathing.

3

It is always good to call ahead (021-6740034) and warn us that you are on the way with a serious emergency. Drive carefully.

4

In case of seizures, never put your hand into the animal’s mouth. If it is on a hard surface move a cushion underneath. Time the event. If it lasts longer than about 3 minutes, seek veterinary help.

5

If heat exhaustion is suspected, cool the animal down with water. Cooling down is of utmost importance. Seek urgent veterinary care.

6

If poisoning is suspected bring the poison container along to allow the emergency clinician to identify the toxin and correct treatment.

7

Snake bites: Puff Adder and Cobra bites are common and need urgent veterinary care. Cobra bites are extremely serious as it will paralyse breathing. If possible, try identify the snake or take a photo, but do not try to kill the snake for identification purposes. The CAMC is one of a few practices that usually has snake anti-venom available 24hrs a day.

8

If possible, cats are best transported in cat baskets.

Prepare for and prevent emergencies

1

Make sure your pet cannot escape from your premises, especially during periods where fireworks may be heard or during thunderstorms.

2

Always ensure your pet has a microchip and an identification collar. The microchip cannot be lost and is a reliable means of identification to help us reunite you.

3

Have our telephone number as well as the number of your regular veterinarian near your phone and programmed on your mobile phone.

4

Consider pet medical aid insurance. Emergencies and illness can be costly and unexpected. Medical insurance can go a very long way towards carrying these costs on your behalf. Contact us for details of pet health insurance companies. Remember that many home-owners’ insurance policies will also include cover of accidental injuries of pets. Check your policy documentation.

5

Avoid the use of poisons around the house or make sure they are absolutely not accessible to pets, e.g. rat poison or snail pellets, antifreeze, chocolate, avocado, grapes and raisins.

6

If your dog is off of a lead when out for a walk, ensure that he or she does not approach other dogs who are on a lead – they are usually on a lead for a reason.

Conditions that should be considered emergencies:

Trauma (car accidents, falling, fractures, etc.)
Haemorrhage
Respiratory difficulties
Collapse, paralysis or unconsciousness
Seizures
Marked lethargy or lack of appetite
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Coughing
Snake bites

Allergic reactions
Bloat or distension of the abdomen
Ingestion of tablets or poisons
Heat exhaustion
Bite wounds
Pale or blue tongue or gums
Coughing or open mouthed breathing especially in cats
Acute severe limping or lameness
Pain

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Emergencies

What to do in an emergency:

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Prepare for and prevent emergencies

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Conditions that should be considered emergencies:

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