Step 1 of 28
Emergency Pet Care | Pet Trauma Care
Emergency Veterinary Services – Trusted by Pet Owners Across California
About Us
Emergency Pet Care | Pet Trauma Care
Emergency pet care and pet trauma care at AV Veterinary Center. Fast response, expert veterinarians, and advanced critical care for pets. Call today at 661-729-1500
Compassionate CareLancaster, CA
Step 2 of 28
Surgeries
Orthopedic, Soft-Tissues, ACL/CCL Repair, TPLO, Neuro and Knee Fracture
Step 3 of 28
Diagnostics
OT Scanner, MRIs, Pet Endoscopy, CT Scanning, Ultrasound and X-Rays
Step 4 of 28
Understanding Emergency and Trauma Care for Pets
Emergency and trauma situations are very stressful and confusing for pet owners. At AV Veterinary Center in Lancaster , we not only focus on the treatment of emergencies but also on educating the families about the early recognition of the signs of distress and the quick response. Understanding what an emergency is and how to deal with it can sometimes be the factor that saves your pet’s life. Trauma refers to the injuries that result from various kinds of abrupt incidents, such as a fall, getting hit by a car, or an aggressive fight with another animal. What may seem like a small accident can sometimes be serious hidden damage to your pet’s body. That is why a veterinary examination by a trained professional and the identification of the causes through diagnostic testing should be done as soon as possible after an injury of any kind.
Step 5 of 28
Robert
Hospital Manager and Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)
Step 6 of 28
MJ
Veterinary Assistant / Shift Lead
Step 7 of 28
Leslie C
Veterinary Assistant / Shift Lead
Step 8 of 28
Sarah
Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)
Step 9 of 28
Christina Parker
Veterinary Assistant
Step 10 of 28
Amber
Front Staff Supervisor
Step 11 of 28
Mimi
Receptionist
Step 12 of 28
Rochelle
Receptionist
Step 13 of 28
How to Recognize a Pet Emergency
As pets cannot talk, they are not able to tell us when they are ill. Thus, we have to be very attentive to any changes in their behavior or the appearance of symptoms. A few of the emergency signs are: If you see any of these symptoms, it is extremely important to get a vet’s help right away, especially one that is ready to handle a traumatic emergency. Fast intervention is what saves your pet from going through problems that cannot be reversed.
- Heavy and/or uncontrolled bleeding
- Difficulty in breathing or continuous coughing
- Not responding to stimuli or fainting
- Sudden inability to walk or very severe limping
- Signs of poisoning or exposure to toxins
- Heatstroke or extreme temperature distress
- Continuous vomiting or diarrhea with the presence of blood
Step 14 of 28
What to Do Before You Arrive
While you are waiting to get to the AV Veterinary Center in Lancaster/Palmdale or another vet hospital: Also, phone ahead if that is an option, and inform the staff about your pet’s condition and when you will be there. This enables the center to get ready and make the treatment process quicker after your arrival.
- Try to keep yourself composed and calm, and make sure your pet is as quiet as possible. Animals that hurt might behave in ways that are not expected; handling them with care can help reduce their anxiety.
- If the pet’s breathing is difficult due to the obstruction of the airway, first remove the object and stop the bleeding with the help of a clean cloth or gauze if you have it.
- If you think there might be injured bones or a spine, do not let the animal move. This stops the injuries from getting worse.
- Do not attempt to administer medicines without the guidance of a vet. Some drugs made for humans might be harmful to animals.
Step 15 of 28
The Role of Diagnostic in Trauma Care
Fast and correct identification of the problem is what leads the way for the rest of the treatment in emergency and trauma situations. In such cases, the use of imaging technology, like digital X-rays and ultrasonography, is highly recommended by the professionals at the AV Veterinary Center . These tools can help in revealing the issues that are not visible to the human eye, such as broken bones, internal bleeding, and organ damage. Blood tests and other lab work allow doctors to see if the pet has any medical problems that make the situation more serious, like infection, anemia, or swallowing something poisonous. Well-rounded diagnostics give the vet the ability to shape treatment plans fast and efficiently, thus giving your pet a better chance to pull through.
Step 16 of 28
Supportive and Follow-Up Care
Emergency veterinary care is usually only the beginning of the story. Pets that have been through trauma and are on their way to recovery generally have to: – Such care, definitely, makes the process of your pets’ recuperation as seamless and secure as possible. Hospitalization is necessary in many personal injury cases to monitor the patient’s vital signs and response to treatment.
- Get intravenous fluids for hydration
- Have their pain managed, so they get well in comfort
- Be observed constantly to spot any changes in condition
- Receive wound care and maybe surgical repair
Step 17 of 28
Preparation and Prevention
While we can never anticipate some emergencies, getting prepared ahead of time would certainly be a plus. Consider putting together a pet first-aid kit that includes bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, a digital thermometer, and emergency contact numbers. Regularly checking the environment to see whether something that could harm your pet is accessible (for example, ensuring toxic substances are not within reach and supervising your pet if you are near busy roads) also contributes towards reducing the chances of an unwanted incident occurring. Having a solid emergency plan for your pet makes all the difference and can ensure that you are ready to protect them when it counts.
Step 18 of 28
Emergency surgeries
Immediate surgical interventions to save your pet’s life in critical situations.
Step 19 of 28
Trauma care
Compassionate and specialized care for pets recovering from accidents or injuries.
Step 20 of 28
Critical care monitoring
Urgent monitoring and intensive care for pets in critical condition.
Step 21 of 28
Pain management
Effective pain relief solutions to keep your pet comfortable during recovery.
Step 22 of 28
Diagnostic imaging
Advanced X-rays and ultrasounds for accurate and timely diagnosis.
Step 23 of 28
Emergency Kit Essentials
Remember to stay calm and seek professional help as soon as possible. Here is a list of emergency and trauma cases for pets that should be seen by a veterinary hospital immediately:
- Gauze and bandages
- Adhesive tape
- Antiseptic wipes
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Digital thermometer
- Hydrogen peroxide (to induce vomiting if advised)
- Muzzle (to prevent biting during treatment)
- Emergency contact numbers (vet, animal poison control)
Life-Threatening Emergencies
- Severe trauma: Hit by a car, falling from a height, or any major blunt force injury.
- Severe bleeding: Uncontrolled bleeding from any part of the body.
- Difficulty breathing: Any respiratory distress or abnormal breathing patterns.
- Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness: Sudden collapse, fainting, or coma.
- Seizures: Continuous seizures or seizures lasting more than 5 minutes.
- Poisoning or toxin ingestion: Ingesting harmful substances (e.g., antifreeze, rodenticides, toxic plants).
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): Swollen abdomen, unproductive retching, and signs of severe pain.
- Choking: Airway obstruction that is not relieved immediately.
Urgent Medical Conditions
- Fractures or severe lameness: Any suspected broken bones or inability to walk.
- Eye injuries: Any trauma or injury to the eye, including foreign objects.
- Heatstroke: Signs of overheating, excessive panting, drooling, and collapse.
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea: Especially if accompanied by blood or lasting more than 24 hours.
- Inability to urinate or defecate: Straining without producing urine or feces, which could indicate a blockage.
- Persistent coughing or gagging: This could indicate a respiratory or cardiac issue.
- Allergic reactions: Swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing.
- Prolapsed organs: Any visible internal organs, such as a prolapsed rectum or uterus.
Step 26 of 28
Other Conditions Warranting Emergency Care
In any of these cases, it is crucial to contact a veterinary hospital immediately and seek professional care to ensure the best possible outcome for your pet.
- Suspected poisoning or drug overdose: Ingesting medications or substances not meant for pets.
- Severe allergic reactions: Hives, facial swelling, and anaphylaxis.
- Sudden collapse or weakness: Sudden onset of lethargy or collapse without a clear cause.
- Severe dehydration: Persistent vomiting or diarrhea leading to dehydration.
- Exposure to extreme temperatures: Hypothermia or hyperthermia.
Serious but Not Immediately Life-Threatening Conditions
- Wounds and lacerations: Deep cuts or wounds that may require stitches.
- Burns or scalds: Chemical, thermal, or electrical burns.
- Swelling or masses: Sudden onset of swelling or growths.
- Ingestion of foreign objects: Swallowed items that could cause a blockage.
- Severe pain: Any signs of acute pain, such as whining, limping, or guarding a body part.
- Neurological symptoms: Disorientation, loss of balance, or changes in behavior.
Step 28 of 28
Reproductive and Neonatal Emergencies
Neonatal distress: Weak, non-responsive, or struggling newborn puppies or kittens.
- Dystocia (difficulty giving birth): Prolonged labor or visible distress during birthing.
Ready to Schedule Your Visit?
Whether you need a routine checkup or have questions about your pet's care, our Lancaster and Palmdale team is here to help.