At Johnstown Veterinary Associates, in Johnston, PA, we know that your pet is your friend. We also understand that pet emergencies can happen when you least expect them. We offer vet urgent care so that you can have peace of mind knowing we are here to help.
What Is Pet Urgent Care?
When you think about visiting the veterinarian, you probably think about routine appointments. You'll call a vet on our team and schedule an appointment ahead of time. This is fine for many issues. However, pet emergencies can't wait.
Pet urgent care allows your pet to get urgent vet care when he needs it, rather than waiting for an appointment. An urgent vet on our team is also well equipped and prepared to handle common animal emergencies.
When Does My Pet Need Urgent Care?
Sometimes, it's clear that your pet is experiencing a pet emergency. However, at other times, you may be unsure if he needs immediate care or if he can wait.
Injuries
Certain types of animal injury need urgent care. If your pet has a cut that doesn't stop bleeding, he needs prompt veterinary care. Also get help if you suspect that your pet has a broken bone or a dislocated joint.
Lastly, attacks or bites from another animal often need urgent care. Snake bites, skunk sprays that got into your pet’s eyes, porcupine quills, and bites that cause injuries or persistent bleeding should be treated in a timely manner.
If you think your pet has internal injuries, you should get him to a vet immediately. This can occur if he has have fallen from a height of several feet or more or he got hit by a vehicle.
Frequent Vomiting or Diarrhea
One or two bouts of vomiting or diarrhea don't require immediate treatment. However, if your pet continues to vomit or have diarrhea, you'll need to get him treatment to avoid dehydration.
These can be symptoms of common illnesses, like a stomach virus. However, they can also be symptoms of poisoning or toxin ingestion, which needs to be treated quickly.
If your pets stop eating or drinking, this can also be a sign of an emergency. Generally, if they don't eat or drink for 12 to 24 hours, this is a cause for concern that should be treated quickly.
Loss of Consciousness or Paralysis
If your pet loses consciousness unexpectedly, bring him to an urgent vet immediately. This also applies if your pet collapses, or is unable to move, which is known as paralysis.
Other Urgent Care Situations
Other urgent care situations include choking, heatstroke, and inability to urinate or defecate.
A Veterinarian on Our Veterinary Team is Here to Provide Aet Urgent Care for Your Animal Emergency Care
If you have an animal emergency in Johnston, PA, contact us at Johnstown Veterinary Associates. We are here to meet your pet's needs, from routine exams to emergency treatment. Call us at (814) 536-5105 for vet urgent care.