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EMERGENCY & ACUTE CARE

Emergency and acute care is a critical component of veterinary medicine, especially when your pet is facing unexpected or urgent health issues. At Maple City Animal Hospital, we understand how stressful and overwhelming it can be when your pet is in distress, which is why we are dedicated to providing prompt, compassionate, and effective care during emergencies.




WHAT IS EMERGENCY AND ACUTE CARE?

Emergency and acute care refers to medical treatment provided for pets experiencing sudden, severe, or life-threatening conditions that require immediate attention. These conditions can range from trauma (such as accidents) to sudden illnesses or infections that demand urgent intervention.

Acute care involves the management of conditions that develop quickly, often with rapid onset of symptoms, and typically requires intensive treatment over a short period of time to stabilize your pet's condition. Emergency care, on the other hand, is the treatment given during life-threatening situations that require immediate action to save your pet's life.

Veterinary team examining small white dog with two veterinarians in professional attire

COMMON
EMERGENCIES IN PETS

Some common emergencies that may require acute care include:

TRAUMA AND INJURIES:

Car accidents, falls, or fights can lead to fractures, internal injuries, and severe bleeding. Lacerations, bite wounds, or punctures require immediate attention to prevent infection and manage pain.

BREATHING DIFFICULTIES:

Difficulty breathing can be caused by heart disease, lung disease, or obstruction of the airway (such as choking). Respiratory distress can also be a sign of an allergic reaction, infection, or injury.

SEVERE VOMITING OR DIARRHEA:

Persistent vomiting or diarrhea, especially when accompanied by lethargy, dehydration, or a lack of appetite, can be a sign of serious illness.

POISONING OR TOXIN EXPOSURE:

Ingesting harmful substances such as chocolate, certain plants, or household chemicals can cause severe reactions, ranging from gastrointestinal upset to organ failure.

Antifreeze poisoning (ethylene glycol) and rodenticides are particularly dangerous and requires immediate treatment.

ACUTE LAMENESS OR LIMPING:

Sudden lameness or limping may be a sign of a fracture, ligament tear, or dislocation, and these injuries should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage or complications.

POISONING OR TOXIN EXPOSURE:

Ingesting harmful substances such as chocolate, certain plants, or household chemicals can cause severe reactions, ranging from gastrointestinal upset to organ failure.

Antifreeze poisoning (ethylene glycol) and rodenticides are particularly dangerous and requires immediate treatment.

HEATSTROKE:

Pets are at risk of heatstroke if they are exposed to hot temperatures for prolonged periods, especially if they have been overexerting themselves in the heat.

Symptoms of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and collapse.

URINARY BLOCKAGES:

Male cats, in particular, are prone to urinary blockages, which can cause a buildup of toxins in the body and can lead to kidney failure or death if not treated immediately.

Dogs can also experience bladder issues or kidney problems that require quick intervention.



OUR EMERGENCY CARE SERVICES

At Maple City Animal Hospital, we are equipped to handle many types of pet emergencies and acute care situations. Some of the key services we offer include:

MONITORING AND EMERGENCY CARE:

While we do not currently provide round-the-clock emergency care, we are well-equipped to provide immediate care during office hours, and we can refer you to an emergency clinic for after-hours care if needed.

We monitor vital signs, administer IV fluids, and provide medication to stabilize your pet's condition.

SURGICAL INTERVENTION:

In the case of trauma or life-threatening injuries, we are prepared to perform emergency surgery to stabilize your pet. This may include procedures to address internal bleeding, fractures, or foreign body obstructions.

Laparotomy (surgical exploration of the abdomen) or orthopedic surgery may be necessary in urgent situations.

ADVANCED DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS:

We use a range of diagnostic tools, including digital X-rays, urinalysis, bloodwork, and electrocardiograms (ECGs), to quickly assess your pet's condition and pinpoint the cause of their symptoms.

These tools allow us to make accurate, quick decisions about treatment, ensuring that your pet receives the right care at the right time.

PAIN MANAGEMENT AND STABILIZATION:

Acute care often involves pain relief and stabilizing your pet's condition. We use a combination of pain medications and supportive treatments (like IV fluids or oxygen therapy) to help manage pain and improve comfort.


We are committed to making sure your pet is as comfortable as possible during their treatment and recovery.

Paw Print

TOXIN EXPOSURE
MANAGEMENT:

If your pet has ingested a toxin, we can provide immediate decontamination treatments, such as induced vomiting, gastric lavage, or activated charcoal, depending on the type of toxin.

Paw Print

EMERGENCY
SUPPORT FOR
CHRONIC
CONDITIONS:

If your pet has a chronic condition (such as diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease) and experiences an acute crisis, we can provide emergency treatment to manage the condition and stabilize their health.



INITIAL ASSESSMENT:

INITIAL ASSESSMENT:

When you arrive, our team will perform a rapid triage to assess the severity of the situation. This helps prioritize care and determine if immediate intervention is necessary.

TREATMENT PLAN:

Based on the diagnostic results, we will develop a treatment plan that may include surgery, medications, or other therapies. We will discuss the options with you and explain the expected outcomes.

STABILIZATION:

We will focus on stabilizing your pet first, which may include IV fluids, oxygen therapy, or pain management to address their immediate needs.

ONGOING CARE:

After your pet is stabilized and treatment begins, we will provide updates on their condition and recovery progress. We may also recommend follow-up care or referrals to specialists if needed.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTING:

After stabilization, we will perform the necessary diagnostic tests (such as blood work, X-rays, or urinalysis) to get to the root of the issue and guide treatment decisions.

WHEN SHOULD YOU SEEK EMERGENCY CARE?

If your pet is experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, or if you are unsure about the severity of their condition, it is always better to err on the side of caution and seek emergency care. The sooner a condition is addressed, the better the chance of a successful outcome.

Emergencies can be overwhelming, but at Maple City Animal Hospital, we are dedicated to providing fast, effective, and compassionate care for your pet when they need it most. Whether it is a traumatic injury, a sudden illness, or an acute medical issue, our team is here to ensure that your pet gets the treatment they need and be made to feel as comfortable as possible. If you ever find yourself in need of emergency care, do not hesitate to contact us right away. We are here for your pet in their time of need.

LET'S TALK!

OR BARK, OR EVEN MEOW!

We provide clear communication with our clients to
avoid any unnecessary costs and build trust.

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