Dog Emergencies that can be treated at home, and those that can't

There are some occasions when it makes sense for a veterinarian to come to your home to provide medical care. However, an at-home vet visit would not always be appropriate in every emergency. This article discusses when you could request a visit at home and when it would be better to head straight for the clinic.

Key takeaways

• Sometimes, an at home vet visit may be appropriate out of hours. This is the case for some minor injuries and illnesses, or if your pet is being put to sleep
• A vet is limited in what they can do from your home. For this reason, more complex or serious emergencies are better addressed in the veterinary clinic
• If unsure which is the better option for your dog, call the clinic directly so they can help in the decision making
  

Can a Vet Really Treat a Dog Emergency at Home?

For some cases, your emergency vet would be able to assist you effectively from the comfort of your home.

What an At-Home Emergency Vet Can Do

If your pet is coping well and the vet doesn’t need to run rapid diagnostic tests or perform any interventions (such as a surgery), at-home care may be appropriate.

From your home, your vet would be able to do a number of things such as examine your dog, provide medication and induce vomiting (if something toxic or indigestible has recently been eaten).

When an Emergency Still Needs a Hospital

Some animals need assessment or care in a 24-7 hospital and a home visit is not always suitable. Hospital care is needed for those who are very sick or who require emergency surgery or interventions like urinary catheterisation or chest drainage.

Dog Emergencies That Can Usually Be Treated at Home

Sometimes, a home visit is the easiest and most stress-free option for all involved.

Digestive Upsets and Some Poisoning Cases

For pets who are coping well but experiencing some digestive upset, they may simply need to have a vet check them over and administer medication. If your pet is able to drink and eat and who are well hydrated, they may not need hospital care.

If your dog recently ate something toxic, a vet can quickly induce vomiting with an injection, to eliminate the risks involved.

Minor Wounds and Injuries

Other conditions which can be managed from the comfort of your home would include very minor wounds, some lameness cases, or eye problems such as corneal ulcers.

There are times when your vet can examine your pet and medicate them, without the need for any further steps.

Mild Dehydration

Some pets can be managed from home, if they are a little dehydrated and coping well. Perhaps they’ve had some vomiting and diarrhoea but are still active.

If the pet is happy to eat and drink and can hold down water, you may find that they respond quickly to your at-home nursing.

Dog Emergencies That Cannot Be Treated at Home

Of course, there will be cases that need to be seen at the hospital and where an at-home visit is just not an option.

Breathing and Airway Emergencies

Respiratory distress is always concerning and your vet may want to administer oxygen and calming medicine or bronchodilators, to allow your pet to breathe easier. If there has been a choking incident, they may need sedation to remove the foreign object.

Many pets will require imaging to help determine the cause of their breathing trouble and some may need invasive procedures, such as chest drainage.

Bloat, Internal Bleeding and Collapse

If your dog is likely to be a surgical candidate, such as if they are experiencing a GDV or ruptured tumour or if they need a c-section, they require immediate hospital care.

A collapsed dog could have a number of things wrong, ranging from severe joint pain or low blood pressure to cardiac disease, heat stroke or an embolism. These dogs are best evaluated in the clinic, with several staff members on hand.

Trauma, Seizures and Severe Allergic Reactions

Trauma is a good example of when it is best to be seen in the clinic. Patients may have both internal and external injuries, and your vet is likely going to want to perform some in-house tests (including blood tests and diagnostic imaging) to assess them fully.

Dogs experiencing anaphylaxis may have low blood pressure and airway narrowing. The treatment typically includes steroids, anti-histamines, oxygen and/or adrenaline. These dogs should be seen swiftly, to ensure a full recovery.

How to Tell the Difference in the Moment

It is not always immediately obvious if your vet requires an in-clinic vet visit. However, it is usually the safest and most practical choice if you are uncertain.

Red Flags That Mean Go Now

Head to the emergency vet immediately if:

• Your pet is bleeding, vomiting blood, or has pale gums
• They are struggling to breathe
• A seizure has lasted over 5 minutes
• Your pet has a urinary blockage
• They are collapsed or unresponsive

What to Do While You Wait for a Vet

If a vet is coming to your home, ensure they have somewhere to park and that your doorway is well lit. It is also sensible to keep your pet behind a closed door in one room.

If possible, have a couple of people there who know the pet, to help with restraint.

What Happens If a Home Emergency Needs Hospital Care?

If you’re seen at home but it is then determined that your pet needs to be seen at the hospital, there are a few options. Sometimes, particularly if they have come in a van or pet ambulance, the vet can transport your dog. However, it may be that they ask you to bring them yourself.

Your vet will likely call the 24-7 clinic, so the staff can prepare for your pet’s arrival. Or, if your vet requires more specific health care, they may be referred directly to a specialist hospital.

Get Emergency Veterinary Advice for Your Dog

For advice or to book an appointment quickly, contact an emergency vet near you.

Dog Emergencies at Home: FAQs

Which dog emergencies can be treated at home?

Certain cases can be managed from home, without the need for a vet visit. This includes minor wounds or some recent toxicities.

What dog emergencies need a 24-hour hospital?

There are emergencies that need in-clinic care. This is the case for any surgical emergency or when the dog is unstable and needs to be hospitalized.

How do I know if my dog's condition is serious?

There are some red flag signs that indicate your dog is not coping. This would include pale gums, laboured breathing, weakness, or obvious lethargy.

Can a vet come to my house for a dog emergency?

In many cases, a vet can come to your home to treat an emergency. However, be prepared that they may recommend your dog be brought to the clinic for further testing and care.