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Emergency Guide
Emergency Preparedness
Essential emergency preparedness information from Hearthstone Animal Clinic to help you respond quickly and effectively during pet emergencies.
Emergency Contacts
Hearthstone Animal Clinic
Mon-Fri: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM, Sat: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
24/7 - Fee may apply
Pet Poison Helpline
24/7 - Fee may apply
Emergency Response Guide
Pet First Aid Basics
Essential first aid skills every pet owner should know for emergency situations.
- Check breathing and pulse - normal dog heart rate: 60-140 bpm, cats: 120-220 bpm
- Control bleeding with direct pressure using clean cloth or gauze
- For choking: open mouth, check for visible objects, try to remove with tweezers
- CPR: 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths
- Never give human medications unless specifically directed by veterinarian
- Keep pet calm and warm, speak in soothing voice
- Call veterinarian immediately while providing first aid
Emergency Kit Essentials
Items to keep on hand for pet emergencies and disaster preparedness.
- First aid supplies: gauze, bandages, antiseptic wipes, thermometer
- Emergency contact list: veterinarian, emergency clinic, poison control
- Current photos of your pet and copies of vaccination records
- 7-day supply of food, water, and medications
- Leash, collar with ID tags, and carrier for transport
- Blankets and towels for warmth and comfort
- Flashlight, batteries, and portable radio
When to Call the Emergency Vet
Recognizing signs that require immediate professional veterinary care.
- Difficulty breathing, gasping, or blue gums
- Unconsciousness, seizures, or inability to stand
- Severe bleeding that won't stop with direct pressure
- Signs of poisoning: vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness
- Trauma from car accidents, falls, or fights
- Inability to urinate or defecate for more than 24 hours
- Suspected heatstroke: excessive panting, drooling, weakness
Common Emergency Situations
How to respond to the most frequent pet emergencies.
- Heatstroke: Move to cool area, apply cool (not cold) water to paws and ears
- Cuts/wounds: Apply direct pressure, cover with clean bandage
- Poisoning: Call poison control immediately, do NOT induce vomiting unless told
- Bloat (dogs): Recognize signs - distended abdomen, unproductive retching
- Seizures: Keep pet safe from injury, time the seizure, stay calm
- Eye injuries: Flush with saline solution, prevent rubbing
- Broken bones: Immobilize area, transport carefully to veterinarian
Emergency Warning Signs
Breathing Emergencies
- Difficulty breathing
- Blue or pale gums
- Gasping for air
- Excessive drooling
Neurological Emergencies
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Disorientation
- Inability to stand
Trauma
- Visible injuries
- Limping or inability to walk
- Suspected internal bleeding
- Shock symptoms
Poisoning
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Weakness or collapse
Houston-Specific Emergency Concerns
Living in Houston presents unique emergency risks for pets:
Weather-Related:
- Hurricane evacuation planning with pets
- Heat stroke from high humidity and temperatures
- Flooding and water safety concerns
Environmental:
- Venomous snake bites (coral snakes, copperheads)
- Fire ant stings and allergic reactions
- Toxic plants common in Texas landscaping
Be Prepared - Save Lives
Keep this emergency information accessible and know your nearest emergency veterinary clinic. Quick action can save your pet's life.