Is it an Emergency?

Sometimes, outside normal hours, it is difficult to decide whether urgent attention is needed. You can always call and ask for advice.

You should phone the vet for these reasons:

your pet seems weak, is reluctant to get up, or is dull and depressed.
there is difficulty breathing, or it is noisy or rapid, or if there is continual coughing causing distress.
there is repeated vomiting, particularly with young or elderly animals. Diarrhea is less serious, unless severe, bloody or the animal seems weak or unwell. Feed small amounts of a bland diet (boiled chicken or white fish) and see a vet if it persists for over a day.
your dog appears to be in severe pain or discomfort.
your pet is trying to urinate or defecate and is unable to. Blockage of the bladder sometimes occurs, especially in males, and can kill if not treated urgently.
there are sudden difficulties with balance.
a female with suckling puppies is agitated, shaking and shivering and will not settle. It could be eclampsia, which needs urgent treatment.

In emergency situations:

Contact the vet. Keep your vet's phone number in hand and know the name of the practice.
Always phone first, whatever the situation, as there may not always be a vet available, but staff may be able to suggest immediate action you can take.
Have a pen handy in case another number is given. Treatment can usually be provided more quickly if the dog is taken to the surgery, rather than if the vet is called out.
Always bear in mind the safety of yourself and others. Keep calm and assess the situation before acting. Injured animals are frightened and in pain and may try to bite anyone who touches them.
If there is a risk of biting, put a muzzle on, or wrap tape around the nose and tie behind the ears, unless your dog has difficulty breathing. Small dogs may be restrained by putting a thick towel over their heads.
Never give human medicines to a dog — many will do more harm than good. Do not offer food or drink in case anesthetic is needed.
Drive carefully when taking the patient to the surgery.
If you do get bitten, see your doctor.