If your pet has been injured in an accident or has been attacked by another animal, it’s important to get them to an emergency animal hospital as soon as possible. When you know what to do ahead of time, it will be easier for you to stay calm and act quickly. Here are some tips for safely transporting your injured pet to an animal emergency clinic in Seattle, WA.
Be Gentle and Remain Calm
Try to be as calm as possible. Your pet is frightened and stressed, and you want to try to keep them calm. Be gentle with your pet and don’t make sudden movements.
Move Your Pet as Little as Possible
Move your pet as little as possible. Handle them gently and try to get them on their side if possible. If you can’t, or if your pet seems to have trouble breathing on its side, it may have an injury to the chest or lungs. In that case, let them stay in the position that they have chosen.
Assess the Injuries
Assess your pet’s injuries. If they are bleeding, try to determine the source of the bleeding and apply gentle pressure with a clean towel or t-shirt. Look for signs of broken bones and injuries to their ears, eyes, neck, and abdomen.
Call an Emergency Veterinarian
You should call the closest emergency veterinary hospital and give them as many details as possible about your pet’s injuries and what caused them. They will give you instructions to follow, such as checking your pet’s breathing or heart rate. They can also guide you in stabilizing your pet so that you can carry them to your car.
Stabilize Your Pet for Transport
If possible, gently place your pet on a piece of stiff cardboard, the plastic tray from a pet crate, or a piece of wood to stabilize them. If your pet is able to stand on its own, you can put them in a crate, carrier, or a cardboard box. As a last resort, you can use a towel, blanket, or pet bed. Do not put pressure on your pet’s stomach. Try to keep your pet’s back and neck as straight as possible and position their head in normal alignment with their body. Cover them with a towel or blanket and put them in the back seat of your car. If you are with someone else, have them drive while you stay in the back seat with your pet.
Call Emerald City Emergency Clinic
Even if your pet appears fine after being injured, they still need to be seen by a veterinarian. They may have internal injuries or be at risk of infection. Take them to the closest emergency animal hospital for a full examination from a professional.
At Emerald City Emergency Clinic, we offer 24/7 emergency pet care in Seattle, WA. Our emergency pet clinic is open 365 days a year, and specializes in emergency triage services, emergency diagnostics and surgical services, and routine veterinary services. Call now to let us know you’re coming in for a pet emergency.
