A pet in pain or discomfort can be a very distressing situation. Sometimes the cause is clear, such as an injury or ingesting something harmful. Other times, a serious health issue may arise suddenly with no warning, and time is of the essence.
This is why emergency vets are so important.
A Sydney emergency vet will ensure your furry friend gets the critical attention they need, right when they need it.
Keep reading to learn how to identify the signs and symptoms of an unfolding animal emergency, and to know what steps to take next…
Need an emergency vet? Call Sydney Animal Hospitals on (02) 8319 5555. Our team can provide you with immediate guidance and care.
Signs of a Pet Emergency
Behavioural and Neurological
- Confusion
- Acting aggressively
- Seizures or unsteady movements
- Loss of consciousness or collapse
- Paralysis or lameness
- Acute head tilt
- Weakness or fatigue
- Extreme anxiety
Breathing and Respiratory Issues
- Difficulty breathing
- Changes in breathing
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Choking or gagging
- Panting excessively
- Heat stroke or heat stress
Trauma and Injury
- Sudden or severe bleeding
- Suspected internal bleeding
- Open wounds
- Fractured or broken bones
- Hit by a car
- Falling from a height
- Dog or catfight
- Eye injury
- Snake bites
- Paralysis ticks
- Shock
Gastrointestinal and Abdominal Issues
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Straining to urinate, or no output at all
- Pain with bowel movements
- Abdominal bloating
- Bladder stones
- Difficulty moving
- Refusing to drink water
Poisoning and Toxicity
- Vomiting
- Tremors
- Distress
- Drooling
- Sudden vomiting/diarrhoea (e.g., after eating toxins or plants)
- Ingested a foreign object (toys, bones, string, socks, etc.)
Why It’s Important to See an Emergency Vet Quickly
You need to act at the first sign of pain. The faster you seek emergency veterinary care, the better the outcome for your pet.
Conditions like poisoning, breathing difficulties, and internal injuries can escalate rapidly or cause severe complications if left untreated. This is why early intervention can significantly improve treatment success rates and speed up recovery.
Waiting too long to go to an emergency vet hospital can not only put your pet’s life at risk but also lead to more expensive and complex veterinary treatments. What might start as a minor issue could progress into something requiring surgery or extended hospitalisation.
Beyond the medical benefits, acting quickly provides you with peace of mind. Knowing you’ve done everything possible to protect your pet’s health brings relief and reassurance.
How to Prepare for an Emergency Vet Clinic Visit
A pet emergency can be stressful, but being prepared can make a huge difference. Here’s how to handle the situation effectively:
1. Stay Calm and Focused
Your pet can sense your emotions, so staying as calm as possible helps keep them reassured. Take deep breaths and focus on getting them to the vet safely.
2. Perform Basic First Aid
3. Have Your Pet's Details Ready
4. Know Your Emergency Vet Locations
5. Contact Your Vet
6. Transport Your Pet Safely
Choose Sydney Animal Hospitals for Emergency Vet Care
If you need an emergency vet in Sydney, look no further than the seven clinics we have across the city, in Avalon, Baulkham Hills, Kellyville, Newport, Newtown, Norwest, and Stanmore (Inner West).
Our highly experienced and compassionate veterinary staff are on hand to provide a wide range of general vet services and treatment options.
All of our clinics have extended opening hours, however, if your local clinic is closed, you can visit a nearby after-hours emergency referral hospital. They are open every day, some 24/7, and on most public holidays.
We also have a free online vet advice tool for less serious after-hours pet health enquiries.
If your pet is showing signs of distress or serious illness, don’t delay. Head to an emergency vet as soon as possible to get them the professional care and attention they need.
