Pets often have a nose for mischief and can sniff out trouble in an instant. If your furry friend is accident-prone, learn how to prepare for any emergency they may experience. Read our Skyway Animal Hospital team’s six ways to prevent your pet from having a common emergency and keep them safe and healthy.

1: Schedule regular veterinary exams

Regular veterinary exams are essential for maintaining your pet’s health and preventing emergencies. During these visits, our Skyway Animal Hospital veterinarian can:

  • Conduct thorough physical exams to detect early illness signs
  • Perform screening tests
  • Administer necessary vaccinations to prevent infectious diseases
  • Provide dental care to prevent tooth damage and gum disease
  • Discuss diet and nutrition to ensure your pet is receiving the proper nutrients

Routine checkups allow our veterinarian to catch potential health issues before they become emergencies. Early detection and treatment can save your pet from unnecessary pain and suffering and prevent costly emergency veterinary visits.

2: Provide your pet with proper nutrition and hydration

Providing your pet with a balanced diet and keeping them hydrated is essential for their overall health. Each pet has unique dietary needs, so consult our veterinarian to determine the best diet for your pet’s breed, age, and health condition.

Additionally, avoid feeding your pet human food, especially toxic foods such as chocolate, grapes, and onions. Table scraps and leftovers can also cause your furry friend to pack on extra weight, develop pancreatitis, or suffer from a gastrointestinal (GI) obstruction. A well-balanced diet provides the foundation for your pet’s overall health, supporting their immune system, helping them maintain a healthy weight, and reducing their risk for conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and urinary issues. 

3: Pet-proof your home

Pets are naturally curious and may get into things they shouldn’t. Pet-proofing your home can help prevent accidents and emergencies such as accidental poisoning, choking, and other emergencies if your pet ingests harmful substances or objects. Protect your furry friend from home hazards by:

  • Securing toxins — Keep all medications, cleaning products, and chemicals out of your pet’s reach.
  • Removing foods — Keep foods that are toxic to pets, such as chocolate, xylitol, grapes, and onions, out of reach.
  • Latching trash cans — Use pet-proof trash cans or store them in a cabinet.
  • Checking for small objects — Pick up small objects, such as toys, coins, and buttons, to prevent your pet from swallowing them.
  • Covering cords — Electrical cords can become a shocking chew toy if they are not strategically hidden behind furniture or covered.

4: Teach obedience skills to your pet

Effective training can prevent many common pet emergencies. Teach your pet essential commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” “leave it,” and “drop it.” These commands can prevent your pet from running into traffic, ingesting harmful substances, or getting into fights with other pets. Consistent training and socialization help ensure your pet’s safety and well-being, making them a well-behaved and enjoyable companion.

5: Prepare a pet emergency kit

Having a pet emergency kit ready can make a significant difference in handling emergencies quickly and effectively. An emergency kit ensures you have the necessary supplies on hand to provide immediate care and stabilize your pet until you can get to a veterinarian. Stock your pet’s kit with:

  • First aid supplies such as bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers
  • Medications that your pet regularly takes, along with instructions
  • Contact information for the nearest emergency veterinary hospital
  • Food and water 
  • Bedding or blankets

6: Educate yourself on common pet emergencies

Being knowledgeable about common pet emergencies and their signs can help you act quickly if something goes wrong. By learning to recognize common pet emergencies, you can respond promptly and seek veterinary care before the situation worsens. Be on the lookout for the following issues:

  • Poisoning — Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and seizures.
  • Choking — Look for difficulty breathing, pawing at the mouth, and gagging.
  • Heatstroke — Signs include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, disorientation, and collapse.
  • Injuries — Be aware of broken bone, laceration, and internal injury signs.

Preventing pet emergencies requires a proactive approach to your pet’s health and environment. By following these six ways to prevent a pet emergency, you can reduce your four-legged friend’s emergency risk. However, if your pet runs into trouble and requires urgent care, contact our Skyway Animal Hospital team for help.