04/29/2026
We love our dogs and want to keep them healthy. Outside of annual physicals, when do we need to call the vet?
According to the American Kennel Club, dog owners should contact a veterinarian IMMEDIATELY if their dog has:
*difficulty breathing
* severe bleeding
* *seizures
* collapse
* ingested a toxin.
Other crucial reasons include persistent vomiting/diarrhea, refusing food for over 24-48 hours, extreme lethargy, or signs of severe pain.
GeniusVets say your dog needs immediate emergency care (Call IMMEDIATELY) for:
*Breathing Issues: Wheezing, labored breathing, or choking.
*Trauma: Broken bones, bleeding, or hit by a car.
*Toxic Ingestion: Ate chocolate, grapes, xylitol, or household chemicals.
*Neurological/Sudden Behavior: Seizures, sudden collapse, paralysis, or loss of consciousness.
*Abdominal Distress: Bloated, hard abdomen or severe pain.
*Straining: Inability to urinate or defecate.
*⁹Gums: Pale, blue, or grey gums (sign of poor circulation).
The American Kennel Club, GeniusVets, and numerous other veterinary services say a dog needs urgent/same-day care:
Appetite/Thirst: Skipping meals for 2 days or extreme, sudden thirst.
Vomiting/Diarrhea: Frequent, repeated vomiting or diarrhea (especially with blood).
Lethargy: Extreme tiredness or not acting like themselves for more than 24 hours.
Injuries: Limping, limping, or clear signs of pain.
Eye issues: Redness, cloudiness, squinting, or pawing at the eye.
WHEN IN DOUBT, CALL!
If your dog's behavior changes, such as unexpected hiding, howling in pain, or new, unexplained aggression, it is always safer to call the vet. If in doubt, always call the vet to determine if immediate action is needed.
Pet Emergency Clinics in Spokane-
Pet Emergency Clinic
21 E Mission Ave, Spokane, WA 99202
509-326-6670
Animal Emergency Clinic
6522 E 1st Ave STE 101, Spokane Valley, WA 99212
509-535-8743