Vet's emergency advice a "must read"

Northumberland Veterinary Professional Corp. veterinarian Michelle Chiunti is a regular contributor to Cramahe Now. Her latest submission is a "must read" article for pet owners, a definitive answer to the question, "What do I do if my pet needs medical assistance?" Print it and post it on your fridge. One day you may need it.


By: Michelle Chiunti, D.V.M.


Emergencies happen in life – despite the many safeguards we put in place to prevent them. And trust me, after 22 years in practice, just when you thought you have heard them all, one will still come along to stump you. The question with animals are – who and when do you call in regards to an emergency; what is considered an emergency; what can you do before leaving to see a veterinarian; and how do you safely transport your valued four-legged family member.
Unlike urban centers, small communities do not have 24-hour emergency veterinary facilities. Before you have an emergency, you should question your normal veterinarian in regards to their availability of emergency services. It is mandated by law in Ontario that all veterinarians must have arrangements for emergency veterinary care. In recent years, the “James Herriot” country vet is becoming extinct. Many veterinarians attempt to have a more normal life by sharing on-call with neighbouring practitioners. Still others choose to forward their clients to emergency care facilities such as in Whitby and Kingston, Ontario. Our practice has resisted this change by employing enough veterinarians in the practice to share the on-call, and cover emergencies for our regular clients. However, in a time of stress when you have an emergency with your pet, you should have your veterinarian’s phone number handy and know what emergency care procedures they have in place.

What is considered an emergency with your pet?

To find out and learn what you should do click on the full story below:

Emergency Pet Care