Pet Emergency Care in Charlotte, NC
When an unexpected accident or sudden health issue arises, immediate veterinary attention may be necessary. At Hickory Grove Animal Hospital, we provide emergency care during business hours, ensuring your pet receives prompt medical support when needed most. Our dedicated team is here to offer compassionate care for your furry companions during these critical moments.
What Is Pet Emergency Care?
Pet emergency care in Charlotte, NC, is designed to address health issues that require immediate attention due to injury, illness, or unexpected health changes. Unlike routine veterinary visits, emergency care is for situations involving sudden or severe symptoms that could seriously harm your pet if not treated quickly. Whether your pet is injured in an accident, exhibits signs of poisoning, or faces difficulty breathing, our veterinary team is ready to assess and provide immediate care. We accept emergencies on a case-by-case basis and encourage you to contact us first so we can prepare for your pet’s arrival. Quick action can make all the difference in your pet’s recovery.
Common Pet Emergencies
Pets can face a wide range of emergencies that require immediate veterinary attention. These emergencies may be obvious, such as trauma from an accident, or they may appear less severe but still require prompt medical care. Some common pet emergencies that may need urgent attention include:
Trauma and Injury
- Trauma, such as being hit by a car or injured in a fall
- Seizures or convulsions
- Swallowing a foreign object (e.g., toys or socks)
Breathing and Circulation Issues
- Difficulty breathing or choking
- Heatstroke or heat exhaustion
- Allergic reactions with swelling, itching, or difficulty breathing
Digestive and Urinary Problems
- Vomiting or diarrhea that persists
- Difficulty urinating or defecating
- Bloating or abdominal pain
Behavioral and Neurological Concerns
- Collapsing or fainting
- Nerve or brain issues, such as uncoordinated walking or unresponsiveness
- Sudden blindness or vision loss
Poisoning or Toxicity
- Ingesting poison or toxic substances
- Exposure to household chemicals, cleaners, or plants
- Ingesting human medications or foods that are toxic to pets (e.g., chocolate, grapes)
After-Hours Emergency Care
If your pet needs emergency care outside our regular business hours, we encourage you to visit our after-hours emergencies page for a list of local 24-hour emergency facilities. If your pet’s condition requires urgent care but isn’t life-threatening, please get in touch with us directly or visit our urgent care page to learn more about the options available.
Pet Emergency FAQs
What should I do if my pet has a physical injury?
In the case of physical traumas, evaluate the injury and use a clean bandage or cloth to gently wrap the injured area. Do not use any antiseptic, and avoid cleaning out a wound. An emergency veterinarian has the experience and skill to clean out a wound without causing harm to your pet. You want to avoid unnecessarily causing further injuries and focus on getting your pet to a professional. Wrapping the wound helps slow the bleeding. If your pet has severe bleeding, then put pressure on the wound and have someone hold your pet with pressure to the area while you seek emergency services.
What should I do if my pet is poisoned?
When a pet swallows poison, seek immediate emergency care. The poison must be removed from your pet’s system to reduce the impact on their health. Do not induce vomiting unless you are instructed to do so by a veterinary professional. It’s also crucial to seek treatment for allergic reactions caused by foods or insect bites since they may cause a similar reaction to poisoning.
What should I do if my pet has heatstroke?
In the case of heatstroke, use cool water to gently cool down your pet before taking further action. Do not use cold water since it may send a pet into shock. Cool water from a hose or a tub will help. Seek treatment when your pet does not show signs of heatstroke.
Does Hickory Grove Animal Hospital accept emergency walk-ins?
We are unable to accommodate walk-ins. If your pet has an emergency during business hours, please call us first. Our experienced team will instruct you on bringing your pet in or referring you to another emergency veterinarian in Charlotte, NC, or the surrounding areas.