A Pet Owner’s Guide to Common Emergencies

Pet emergency.

The best time to prepare a pet emergency preparedness plan is before you bring your furry companion home for the first time. The second-best time is now. So we’re glad you’re here! In this guide, you’ll learn what you need for a pet first aid kit. You’ll also learn the signs of some common pet emergencies. 

Keep in mind that all pet first aid measures should immediately be followed by a trip to the vet. Our team [link to Our Veterinarians page] at Animal Medical Hospital is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We provide advanced ICU care and emergency surgery to help treat your pet’s life-threatening conditions

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Our Top Tips for Pet First Aid

Pet first aid.

When a pet is sick or injured, everything goes out the window. While Animal Medical Hospital & 24 Hour Urgent Care is here for you around the clock, basic first-aid skills can go a long way towards keeping your head level and your pet in the best hands possible. Basic animal first-aid skills are a must for every pet owner, and we are here to get you started off with your best paw forward. 

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Is It an Emergency or Just Urgent? When to Call an Emergency Vet

Pet emergency.

It can be hard to know whether your pet needs emergency attention or if it can wait until the morning. With pet emergency hospitals such as at Animal Medical Hospital & 24 Hour Urgent Care being busier than ever, it is helpful for pet parents to have a good understanding as to when to bring their animal in immediately and when to wait for an appointment. 

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What to Do When You Have a Deaf Pet

Deaf pets

Our senses are important for helping us to navigate our world. The experience is no different for our animals. Sudden deafness in cats or dogs can happen, and the results can be very disconcerting. Caring for a deaf pet has some challenges, but is a task that Animal Medical Hospital & 24 Hour Urgent Care can help you through.

When Your Pet Has Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can happen in any age pet, in dogs or cats, occur slowly or quickly, and can be in one or both ears. You might notice that your pet is not as attentive as normal, confusion about normal commands or routines, incessant barking, or a change in sleeping habits.

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Can I Put My Pet in My Will?

Putting your pet in your will.

You don’t have to be a senior citizen to wonder, who will care for my pets when I die? Making arrangements for pets after death is a legitimate concern for loving pet parents who want peace of mind that the family pet will be properly cared for after they’re gone. Under North Carolina law, dogs, cats, and other animals are considered personal property, meaning you can designate the recipient of your pet in your will just as you would a car or a piece of jewelry.  

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Now Is the Time to Book Pet Daycare

Pet daycare.

Your pet may have accepted that they must endure some daytime hours all by themselves, but that doesn’t mean they wouldn’t enjoy a wonderful alternative. Most pets manage okay, but some pets do not do well on their own. Pet daycare is a worthwhile option for pets to engage with others in exciting and enriching ways. When you pick them up after 6 full hours of non-stop fun, they are ready to relax with you at home.

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Happy to See Me? Paraphimosis in Dogs

Paraphimosis in dogs.

Those of us who have male dogs in our homes are often familiar with the infamous red rocket. Normally your dog’s penis is neatly hidden inside his prepuce and only makes an appearance when it is needed. Sometimes, though, a dog’s penis can become stuck out for an abnormally long time. This can become a pet emergency, and Animal Medical Hospital & 24 Hour Urgent Care wants our pet owners to know how to recognize paraphimosis in dogs and when it is a cause for worry. 

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Are My Cat’s Claws Too Long?

Cat clawing the couch.

Cat’s claws help them catch prey, climb, and balance. They also help your cat defend himself against enemy combatants—sometimes real, such as dogs, cats, and other animals—sometimes imagined when your cat is being playful.

When nails are too long, they may curl and cut into your pet’s pads, elevating the risk for infection. Long nails can snag on carpet and fabrics and may tear the nail when your pet tries to free himself. Your cat’s ability to retract its claws can be affected too. Luckily, the team at Animal Medical Hospital & 24 Hour Urgent Care is here to help cat owners understand when their feline family member’s nails may be too long, and how to help. 

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Spotting Canine Conjunctivitis

A dog with big eyes.

If you are like us, you probably have a few parts of your pet that are your favorites. Soft ears, adorable paws, or fluffy bellies make our list at Animal Medical Hospital & 24 Hour Urgent Care. Like many of you, though, our pet’s sweet eyes are at the top. 

When there is something wrong with our canine cutie’s eyes, it’s enough to make anyone worry. While there are many ocular problems that can affect dogs, conjunctivitis is a common diagnosis that most pet owners can spot. Learn what canine conjunctivitis looks like and what you should do if you suspect that your pet’s peepers are affected.

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