Just like humans, pets can find themselves faced with unexpected health crises. As a responsible pet owner, you’ll want to ensure you’re prepared when these frightening ordeals strike. We’re here to help you navigate the unexpected with our comprehensive guide to preparing for emergency veterinary visits.
Be Proactive, Not Reactive
The most important tip when it comes to being prepared for an emergency veterinary visit is to be proactive, not reactive. Emergency situations are overwhelming and can lead to missed steps that may be detrimental to your pet. As such, we encourage pet owners to plan out emergency situations and protocols before the issue strikes to avoid unfavorable outcomes for their beloved companions.
Choose a Dedicated Emergency Veterinarian In Advance
Don’t wait until your pet becomes ill or injured to find the most close-by emergency veterinarian. It’s essential to know the exact location of the nearest veterinary facility and have their phone number and address readily available to you.
Keep Track of Your Pet’s Updated Medical Records
The emergency veterinary hospital you visit may not be home to your pet’s usual veterinarian. As such, it’s important to keep copies of your pet’s most up-to-date medical records in a convenient and accessible location. This ensures the emergency veterinarian can promptly access your pet’s health history to curate an effective treatment plan as quickly as possible.
Create An Emergency Veterinary Visit Kit
Being prepared is the most efficient way to navigate veterinary emergencies quickly and calmly to ensure relief and success for your pet. We recommend creating an emergency veterinary visit kit and storing it in a convenient location to limit the stress during a trying situation. In this kit, you should include the following:
- First aid supplies
- A copy of your pet’s medical records
- Contact information for the nearest emergency veterinarian
- Contact information for poison control hotlines
- Comfort items, including a blanket and toy for your pet
For more information on how to ensure you are prepared when the unexpected strikes, contact your trusted veterinarian today.