What constitutes an emergency???

We don't do vaccinations or spays/neuters on animals here at COVE.  We are strictly here for after hours emergencies; to take care of your pet until they can be seen by your regular veterinarian.  When in doubt as to whether something is an emergency...BRING THEM IN! If nothing more than to ease your mind, its best to make sure your pet is okay as quickly as possible!  Your pet may be sick if they present any of the following symptoms or problems:

*Vomiting

*Diarrhea

*Lethargic/Listless

*Trouble urinating

*Trouble defecating

*Hit by car

*Jumping out of car

*Excessive panting

*Ingestion of a toxin

*Behavioral changes

*Lacerations

*Cat fight

*Dog fight

*Limping

*Change in appetite

*Drinking more or less water

*Painful abdomen

*Enlarged abdomen

*Bloated stomach

*Rapid weight loss or weight gain

*Fever

*Swollen face or extremities

*Foaming at mouth

*Blood in urine or stool

*Insect bite

*Seizures

*Rapid eye movement

*Breathing difficulties

*Rigid limbs

*Distinctive odor to urine

*Difficulty getting comfortable

*If your pet stops eating or drinking for any period of time longer than its normal duration between meals.  If your pet doesn't seem to have the same appetite or is anorexic and is not eating at all, you need to address the problem with a veterinarian.  Additionally, if your pet is not consuming the normal amount of water or shows no interest in drinking, please see a doctor as soon as possible.

*If your pet has been vomiting for any period of time, see your veterinarian as soon as possible.  Be especially concerned if the vomit has blood in it or if this symptom occurs with any of the other signs of sickness in your pet.

*If your pet has abnormal or irregular bowel movements such as blood in stool, diarrhea, or constipation.

*If your pet has difficulty urinating, if the concentration or amount of urine is not normal with its typical behavior.  Also, if your pet begins urinating in inappropriate places, such as lack of bowel control in the house.

*If your pet has an increase in the amount of water it is drinking, especially if this is paired with an increase in teh amount it is urinating, you should consult your veterinarian.

*If your pet shows signs of lethargy and this is uncommon in your oet, i.e. Due to some factor other than old age or arthritis.

*If your pet has difficulty getting comfortable, for instance being unable to sleep or sit in the same position for any length of time.  Similarly, if they seem to be painful in the abdomen or elsewhere, you should see a veterinarian immediately.

*If your pet is non-weight bearing on any of its legs.  This is a sign of a possible broken bone and should be addressed immediately with a physical exam and radiographs.

*If you think your pet could have gotten into any toxic substances, such as rat/mouse poison, antifreeze, marijuana or other illegal substances, see your veterinarian immediately.  Large amounts of chocolate, grapes, or chewing gum, for example, are also a concern. 

*If your pet has been in a fight with an animal of unknown history.  Especially in cats, many infectious diseases are transmitted through saliva or bite wounds. 

*CONSULT YOUR REGULAR VETERINARIAN BEFORE USING ANY SORT OF OVER THE COUNTER PRODUCT ON YOUR PET.  THIS INCLUDES FLEA AND TICK MEDICATIONS, YARD AND HOME SPRAYS AND BOMBS, SHAMPOOS, VITAMINS, PET FOODS, ETC.  Many of these over the counter medications can cause very severe problems in your pet.  If you have used an over the counter product and begin seeing problems such as trembling, seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. seek a veterinarian's attention immediately.  Be sure to notify your vet that you have used one of these products.  Bringing the package with you can also help save your pet's life.

These are all precautionary symptoms in an animal and may not necessarily indicate a serious problem.  However, we believe knowledge and prevention create a safer life for your pet, and as your pet's caretaker, your awareness of these signs could save their life.