⚠️ EMERGENCY GUIDE

Pet Emergency Care Guide

When every second counts, know exactly what to do. Keep this guide handy for critical situations.

🚨 Emergency Contacts - Save These Now!

Paws & Applause (Business Hours)

(865) 300-5988 Mon-Fri 7am-7pm, Sat-Sun 9am-5pm

Animal Emergency & Specialty Center

(865) 693-4440 24/7 Emergency Service - Kingston Pike

UT Veterinary Medical Center

(865) 974-8387 Until 10pm (Life/Death 24/7) - River Dr

Pet Poison Helpline

(855) 764-7661 24/7 - Fee applies
⏱️ Time is Critical! Call ahead when possible so the emergency team can prepare for your arrival.

Life-Threatening Emergencies - GO NOW!

If your pet shows ANY of these symptoms, go to emergency vet immediately:

Difficulty breathing
Unconscious/unresponsive
Severe bleeding
Seizures
Hit by car
Pale/blue gums
Swollen, hard belly
Unable to urinate
Extreme pain
Collapse/can't stand
Eye injuries
Suspected poisoning

What to Do:

  1. Stay calm - your pet needs you focused
  2. Call emergency vet while someone drives
  3. Keep pet warm with blankets
  4. Do NOT give food, water, or medications
  5. Transport carefully - support the whole body

Poisoning Emergency

🚫 Common Poisons in Tennessee Homes: Chocolate, xylitol (sugar-free gum), grapes/raisins, antifreeze, rat poison, human medications, azaleas, lilies

If Your Pet Ate Something Toxic:

  1. Call Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
  2. Have the package/substance name ready
  3. Note the time and amount ingested
  4. Do NOT induce vomiting unless directed
  5. Follow their specific instructions
  6. Go to emergency vet if directed

Choking

Signs: Pawing at mouth, gagging, blue tongue, panic, inability to breathe

For Small Dogs (Under 30 lbs):

  1. Hold dog facing downward
  2. Give 5 sharp thrusts to abdomen
  3. Check mouth and remove object if visible
  4. Repeat if needed

For Large Dogs (Over 30 lbs):

  1. Stand behind dog (or lay on side)
  2. Place arms around belly
  3. Make fist and push firmly upward and forward
  4. Check mouth and remove object if visible
  5. Repeat if needed

Heatstroke (Common in TN Summers)

Signs: Excessive panting, drooling, red gums, vomiting, collapse, temperature over 104°F

Immediate Actions:

  1. Move to shade/AC immediately
  2. Offer small amounts of cool (not ice) water
  3. Wet with cool water (focus on paws, belly, armpits)
  4. Use fans to increase cooling
  5. Do NOT use ice or very cold water
  6. Transport to vet with AC on high
💡 Prevention: Never leave pets in cars! Tennessee heat can be deadly in minutes. Walk during cooler hours (before 9am, after 7pm).

Severe Bleeding

Stop the Bleeding:

  1. Apply direct pressure with clean cloth
  2. Hold firmly for 3-5 minutes (don't peek)
  3. If blood soaks through, add more cloth on top
  4. Secure bandage with tape or strips of cloth
  5. Do NOT remove objects stuck in wounds
  6. Get to emergency vet immediately

🏥 Pet First Aid Kit Essentials

Gauze pads & roll
Self-adhesive bandage
Digital thermometer
Hydrogen peroxide 3%
Saline solution
Tweezers
Scissors
Latex gloves
Flashlight
Blanket
Muzzle (injured pets may bite)
Emergency contact list

When to Call Your Regular Vet

These situations need attention but may not require emergency visit:

  • Vomiting/diarrhea for more than 24 hours
  • Not eating for more than 24 hours
  • Excessive scratching or licking
  • Mild limping
  • Minor cuts or scrapes
  • Unusual behavior or lethargy
  • Bad breath or drooling
  • Drinking excessive water
💡 Trust Your Instincts: You know your pet best. If something seems wrong, don't hesitate to call your vet for guidance.

Prepare Before Emergencies Happen

Schedule a wellness visit to discuss your pet's specific health needs

Schedule Wellness Visit Call (865) 300-5988