You never think it’ll happen to your pet—until it does. One minute, everything’s fine. Next, your dog is limping after a hike, or your cat is drooling after chewing something suspicious. Pet emergencies come out of nowhere, and they don’t wait for a convenient time. That’s why being ready ahead of time matters.
Whether it’s a late-night injury or a sudden illness, knowing how to act in those first few moments can make all the difference. From building a pet first aid kit to saving the right numbers in your phone, here’s how you can be prepared for anything—without panic.
What to Do When the Unexpected Happens
Pet emergencies often look very different from human ones. Some are obvious, like bleeding or vomiting. Others are subtle, like excessive panting, sudden lethargy, or even restlessness. If something seems off, it’s always okay to call your vet.
If your pet is in distress:
- Try to stay calm—your energy affects your pet.
- Move them carefully and minimize handling if they’re in pain.
- Call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency vet for guidance.
- If advised, transport them in a secure carrier or with a towel sling for support.
In Shoreview, having the number for your primary vet and an emergency clinic saved in your phone can save you precious minutes. It’s also smart to post those numbers on the fridge or inside a cabinet for quick access.
Stocking a Pet First Aid Kit: What You’ll Need
Your pet first aid kit doesn’t need to be fancy, but it does need to be stocked with essentials. Many of the supplies you’d have in a human kit are useful—just be sure they’re pet-safe.
Every pet owner should have:
- Gauze rolls and non-stick bandages
- Antiseptic wipes (alcohol-free)
- Digital thermometer (ear or rectal, species-specific)
- Tweezers for ticks or splinters
- Blunt-tip scissors
- Saline solution for flushing eyes or wounds
- Styptic powder or cornstarch (for bleeding nails)
- Emergency blanket
- Muzzle or soft wrap (even the sweetest pets can bite in pain)
- Latex gloves
- Copies of medical records and recent medications
Want a shortcut? Many items are available through the Minnesota Veterinary Hospital online pharmacy. It’s a great place to grab vet-approved products and avoid last-minute scrambling.
Prepare Your Emergency Plan (and Don’t Forget to Travel-Proof It)
Emergencies don’t care if you’re on vacation or just out for a drive. Here’s how to build a quick-response plan that goes wherever you and your pet do.
Create your pet emergency plan:
- Save your primary vet’s contact and hours
- Add the nearest 24-hour emergency vet clinic
- Include poison control numbers (like ASPCA: 888-426-4435)
- Know the closest pet ER when traveling
- Label a pet folder with medical records, vaccine info, and a current photo
If your pet has a chronic condition or allergies, talk to your vet about a travel protocol or written emergency instructions. This is especially important if someone else is watching your pet while you’re away.
When It’s Time to Head to the Vet—Don’t Wait and See
In some situations, it’s clear your pet needs immediate care. Other times, pet owners hesitate, hoping the issue will resolve on its own. When it comes to medical concerns, sooner is always better.
Take action immediately if your pet:
- Is unresponsive or collapses
- Has a swollen abdomen or is retching without vomiting
- Has rapid or labored breathing
- Has seizures
- Bleeds excessively or has visible wounds
- Ingests something toxic (chocolate, medication, plants, etc.)
Calling your vet right away can often give you early guidance while you’re on the way. Even if the situation seems minor, it’s never wrong to get a professional opinion. It’s better to feel a little silly than to wait too long.
Create a Calm-Ready Household
Emergencies can be intense—not just for your pet, but for the people in the house. Having a system in place keeps things running smoothly when tensions rise.
Tips to Make Your Home Emergency-Ready
- Store your first aid kit in an easy-to-reach place (not buried in a closet)
- Practice a few scenarios, like gently placing your dog in the car or using the cat carrier calmly
- Talk with your family about who handles what in an emergency
- If you have kids, give them a simple job—like grabbing the leash or the emergency sheet
It’s also smart to check your first aid kit and contact list every few months. Replace expired supplies, and make sure your vet’s contact info is still accurate.
Peace of Mind Starts with a Plan
Emergencies will always be stressful, but they don’t have to catch you off guard. Having a stocked pet first aid kit, an emergency contact list, and a basic response plan helps you move quickly and confidently when seconds matter.
If you’re unsure where to start, or want advice specific to your pet’s health needs, our team at Minnesota Veterinary Hospital is always happy to help. We can review your emergency plan, recommend first aid supplies, and even guide you on when to seek care.
Visit our online store to order essentials for your kit, or contact us today at (651) 484-3331 to ask questions about your pet’s emergency readiness. Your pet counts on you—and we’re here to help you be ready for anything.