When to visit your Veterinarian!!

When to call your Veterinarian!

Dr. Collins from Shadow Creek Veterinary Clinic visited Meadowlake this past Tuesday to advise our staff on when he recommends to take pets to the vet concerning certain issues. These recommendations are helpful but Dr. Collins cautions that “none of them should take the place of common sense.”

                         

Hotspots and Other Skin Irritation
When you notice the irritation, if possible clip the hair around to see the actual size of the wound, how irritated it is (redness) and if there is any discharge. If the wound appears larger than a dime, has discharge, appears inflamed, or is particularly painful, the animal should be examined by a veterinarian.

Lacerations and Puncture Wounds
All lacerations and puncture wounds that break through the skin should be examined by a veterinarian.

Diarrhea

 If the diarrhea continues for more than 36-48 hours, is extremely watery, or has blood in it, the pet should be examined by a veterinarian. A pet should also be taken to a veterinarian when experiencing diarrhea if it stops eating or it’s rectal temperature is greater than 102.5 o r less than 99.5 .Pets with diarrhea should be isolated if possible and abrupt diet changes should be kept to a minimum.

Eye Problems
If a pet is holding his/her eye shut or his/her eye seems painful, appears red, or has discharge/slime, it should be examined by a veterinarian.

Vomiting
If a pet vomits but appears to be acting normal, withhold the next feeding and then return to the normal feeding schedule. If the pet continues to vomit, is running a fever, or seems lethargic consult a veterinarian.

When caring for your pet, it is always best to be cautious and seek advice from a veterinarian if you are unsure of an animal’s condition.

Meadowlake values all the information and advice we receive from Dr. Collins! If you would like more information about Dr. Collins or Shadow Creek Veterinary Clinic, visit http:www.shadowcreekvet.com.