Emergency! Are you prepared?

For Pet Owners Usually, we don't like to think of emergencies - they happen to someone else, right? Not always. Even the 'best' pet owners can experience an emergency situation. The more prepared you are, the better your pet's chances will be for a healthy outcome.

Traveling
If you travel with your pet or have just moved to a new location, do you know where a veterinarian's office is, and do they provide emergency care? Check the phone book, the web, ask for referrals, and get acquainted with the facilities and services in the area. If your pet stays home with a pet sitter, be sure to leave your veterinarian's phone number with your other contact information. It is also a good idea to let your veterinarian know that you will be gone, who is taking care of your pet, and that you pre-authorize any treatments that may become necessary.

First Aid
Dog and cat first aid kits can be made or purchased (compare/review prices).

Pet owners should also be able to properly use the first aid kit - check for animal first aid and CPR classes at your veterinarian's office or local community college. In an emergency situation, if at all possible, call your veterinarian to let them know you are on your way - staff and equipment can be prepared and ready for your arrival.

For Veterinarians
Most clinics have an established routine for emergency situations. Here are some tools to help with communication and work flow in pressure-filled situations.

• Veterinary Emergency Drug Calculator - Just fill in the patient's weight and name, and this will calculate common emergency drug dosages, fluid amounts, and fibrillation units for each patient. Print it out and attach to the patient record so everyone in the hospital can be aware of drugs and amounts given to the patient.
• Cornell Consultant - Need some 'inspiration' for that puzzling emergency case? Search for a diagnosis based on species and keywords or signs.

Happy traveling and stay safe!

Related Links for Pet Owners and Vets

• Disaster Preparation for Your Cats
  Disaster: We don't want it, we don't expect it, but when it arrives, we need to be prepared, particularly for our cats, who look to us for protection.
• Emergency Kit for Cats
  An emergency kit is a "must-have" to stabilize your cat before taking her to the veterinarian, or in case of a disaster.
• A First Aid Kit For Your Aquarium
  
• Saltwater Fish Diseases Index
  Links to information on keeping your fish healthy.