- Have your local animal control and humane society phone numbers ready. In case of a road-side accident involving an animal, or if you find injured wildlife, contact animal control. In cases of suspected abuse contact your local humane society. Should your pet go missing, visit both of these facilities daily if possible.
Some additional phone numbers:- Your veterinary clinic. Your veterinary healthcare team is your best resource if you are experiencing a pet emergency and are unsure what to do. Call first!
- Veterinary emergency clinic
- Pet Poison Helpline : 1-800-213-6680
- Pet transport service
- Shelter or pet friendly hotel
- Keep your pet’s tags and microchip information current! Please remember to update your contact information whenever this changes.
- Have a current list of your pet’s medication as well as any medical records you may have and proof of vaccination
- For diabetic pets – keep a bottle of corn syrup on hand. If blood sugar drops too low (hypoglycemia) this can be a medical emergency. Signs are decline in energy levels, unsteady gait, weakness and tremors which can be life threatening. If any of these signs are noticed, rub corn syrup on your cat’s gums and offer food. DO NOT administer insulin. Contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Make sure you have a secure form of transportation for your cat that you can grab and go if an emergency evacuation is in order. Sturdy hard sided carriers that open from the top work well. Set aside a large towel or blanket that you can use as bedding for the carrier. You can also use a towel as a form of restraint by wrapping it around the cat.
- Use caution when handling a frightened pet – their behaviour can change and they can become aggressive if they are feeling cornered, scared or experiencing pain.
- Use emergency pet rescue stickers. These window decals alert rescue
workers to the presence of animals in your home. Pick yours up next time you’re at the clinic – free of charge!
