When your pet becomes ill or injured, it may be difficult to tell when it’s time to take them straight to an emergency vet instead of waiting for regular hospital hours. Here, the team at Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital in Columbia, MO, discusses a few signs of a serious health problem so you know when to head to the urgent pet care center.

3 Signs You Need an Emergency Vet to Help Your Furry Friend

1. Difficulty Breathing

If your dog or cat has been breathing heavily or making noises when they’re breathing, this is serious and requires the immediate attention of an emergency vet. Other symptoms of breathing problems include blue lips and constant panting.

2. Vomiting or Diarrhea

If your pet has diarrhea or has been vomiting repeatedly over a short period of time, this can result in significant amounts of fluid loss and is considered an emergency situation. These symptoms can be linked to serious gastrointestinal diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease or bacterial infections.

3. Trauma

Anytime your pet has been involved in an accident, such as a collision or altercation with another animal, that causes even slight trauma, it is crucial you take them to the emergency vet. While they may seem unharmed at first, they could be suffering serious internal injuries that must be treated right away. Additionally, if they were bitten, they may have contracted a disease from the other animal.

If your pet displays one or more of these critical signs, don’t waste any time heading to your local emergency vet. For the leading pet clinic in Columbia, MO, turn to the team at Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital. They provide a wide range of services, including emergency care, vaccines, and pet boarding. For an appointment, call (573) 449-3791 to reach the Keene Street practice or (573) 449-7387 for the Buttonwood Drive office. You can also visit their website for more information about their services.