|
Five Common Adult Canine Emergencies 1. Vomiting and Diarrhea can be caused by numerous conditions ¨ Dietary indiscretion ¨ Systemic, endocrine or neurologic disease ¨ Drugs (prescribed or toxic) ¨ Intestinal parasites ¨ GI inflammation or obstruction ¨ Other factors like heat stroke, stress or pain
2. Seizures can be of extracranial or intracranial origin
3. Acute respiratory distress is most often associated with primary pulmonary (refers to the lungs) conditions or non-pulmonary (other than lungs) conditions
4. Intoxication can be caused by poisonous plants, ethylene glycol (antifreeze), mice/rat bait, over the counter medications (ibuprofen, acetaminophen, etc.), over doses of certain medications (human or animal), and other various factors. NEVER GIVE ANY OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATION TO AN ANIMAL AS MANY OF THEM ARE TOXIC! If you have any suspicion that your pet has ingested a toxic substance call a veterinarian immediately for instruction.
5. Gastric Dilation Volvulus, or bloat, is a condition in which the stomach dilates and twists around its central axis resulting in complex local and systemic pathologic and physiologic changes. This condition is most commonly found in large, deep-chested dogs such as german shepherds, great danes, doberman pinschers, retrievers, rottweilers, saint bernards, alaskan malamutes and akitas, but can occur in almost any breed. Clinical signs can include nonproductive retching, a distended or bloated appearance of the abdomen, weakness, depression, and frequent belching. Fatality is always the result of this condition if it is not immediately corrected via surgery.
*If you have any concerns or you think your pet is in an emergency state do not hesitate to call your regular veterinarian during the day or Animal Emergency of Gwinnett. We are open evenings, weekends and holidays.
|