Emergency Pet Care at Ivy Lodge Vets
At Ivy Lodge Vets, we understand that pet emergencies can happen at any time, and when they do, immediate care is crucial. Our emergency vets are available to provide expert, compassionate care when your pet needs it most.
Whether it’s a sudden illness or an unexpected injury, our team is here to ensure your pet gets the best possible treatment.
Common Pet Emergencies We Handle
- Ingestion of Toxic Substances Pets, especially dogs and cats, often get into things they shouldn’t. Common toxins include chocolate, human medications, household cleaning products, and certain plants. Symptoms may include vomiting, seizures, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic substance, contact us immediately.
- Severe Vomiting or Diarrhoea Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea can indicate a range of problems, from infections to intestinal blockages. Dehydration can set in quickly, so prompt veterinary attention is vital.
- Breathing Difficulties If your pet is panting excessively, struggling to breathe, or making unusual sounds while breathing, it may be a sign of respiratory distress. Conditions such as asthma, allergic reactions, or heart issues may be the cause. Don’t delay in seeking emergency care.
- Road Traffic Accidents Pets involved in car accidents need immediate evaluation, even if they appear unharmed. Internal injuries can develop rapidly and may be life-threatening. Our emergency team can provide stabilisation, pain relief, and surgery if necessary.
- Bite Wounds and Trauma Bite wounds, whether from other animals or accidents, can lead to severe infections and internal damage. Our vets can assess the severity of the wound, clean and treat it, and provide antibiotics or other necessary treatments.
- Seizures Seizures can be terrifying to witness. They can be caused by underlying health conditions such as epilepsy, poisoning, or metabolic disorders. If your pet experiences a seizure, keep them safe and bring them to us immediately for assessment.
- Collapse or Weakness If your pet suddenly collapses or is unable to stand, it could indicate serious conditions like heart disease, internal bleeding, or a severe allergic reaction. This requires immediate attention to prevent further deterioration.
- Difficulty Giving Birth (Dystocia) If your pet is in labour and struggling to deliver, this could indicate a complication that needs urgent veterinary intervention, including the possibility of a C-section.
- Eye Injuries Any injury to the eye, such as scratches or foreign objects, should be treated as an emergency. Eye damage can worsen quickly and lead to permanent vision loss if not treated right away.
When to Seek Emergency Care
If your pet is experiencing any of the following symptoms or situations, please seek immediate veterinary attention:
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures or collapse
- Severe bleeding or trauma
- Inability to urinate or defecate
- Ingestion of a toxic substance
- Sudden paralysis or inability to walk
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, especially if blood is present
- Unresponsive or very lethargic behaviour
Why Choose Ivy Lodge Vets for Emergency Care?
- Experienced Team: Our highly skilled veterinary team is trained to handle a wide range of emergencies, ensuring your pet gets the right care fast.
- Fully Equipped Clinic: With state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and surgical facilities, we are ready to perform life-saving procedures as needed.
- Compassionate Care: We understand how stressful emergencies can be. Our team will keep you informed throughout the process and ensure your pet receives compassionate, attentive care.
What to Do in an Emergency
If your pet is experiencing an emergency, call us immediately at 01708 373 671. If possible, try to keep your pet calm and transport them safely to our clinic. Our team will be ready to assist you as soon as you arrive.
Out-of-Hours Emergency Care
For out-of-hours emergencies, please call 01707 666399 to reach the Queen Mother Hospital for Animals. We have partnered with this exceptional facility for over 15 years, ensuring our patients have access to top-tier emergency care whenever they need it.