Pet Emergency Care
While we are not a 24-hour facility, our doctor is on call at all times to provide emergency guidance when you need it most.
Emergency Call: (770) 382-8570When to Seek Emergency Care
If your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, call us immediately for guidance.
Critical Emergency Signs
Difficulty breathing or choking
Labored breathing, gasping, or blue tongue/gums
Unconsciousness or collapse
Sudden collapse, loss of consciousness, or unresponsiveness
Severe bleeding
Heavy bleeding that won't stop or internal bleeding signs
Seizures or tremors
Convulsions, uncontrolled shaking, or seizure activity
Suspected poisoning
Ingestion of toxic substances or showing poisoning symptoms
Eye injuries
Trauma to the eye or sudden vision loss
Urgent Care Signs
Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Multiple episodes, especially with blood
Unable to urinate or defecate
Straining without producing results
Severe pain or distress
Crying, panting, restlessness, or hiding
Bloated or distended abdomen
Especially in large breed dogs (possible bloat)
Heat stroke symptoms
Excessive panting, drooling, weakness
Trauma or injury
Car accidents, falls, or visible injuries
What to Do in an Emergency
Follow these steps to ensure your pet receives the best possible emergency care.
Stay Calm
Keep yourself calm to make better decisions. Your pet can sense your anxiety, which may worsen their stress.
- • Take deep breaths
- • Assess the situation
- • Speak calmly to your pet
Call Immediately
Call our emergency number right away. Dr. McElwee is on call to provide guidance and determine next steps.
Follow Instructions
Listen carefully to the doctor's instructions. They may guide you through first aid or direct you to emergency care.
- • Have pen and paper ready
- • Follow instructions exactly
- • Ask questions if unclear
Basic Emergency First Aid
While waiting for professional help, these basic first aid steps may help stabilize your pet.
Important: These are temporary measures only. Always seek professional veterinary care immediately.
Bleeding Control
- • Apply direct pressure with clean cloth
- • Don't remove cloth if blood soaks through
- • Add more layers on top
- • Elevate injured area if possible
- • Keep pet calm and still
Choking
- • Check mouth for visible object
- • Use tweezers if object is reachable
- • For small dogs: hold upside down, shake gently
- • For large dogs: lift hind legs, push on abdomen
- • Don't push object further down
Poisoning
- • Remove pet from source immediately
- • Save packaging/sample if safe
- • DO NOT induce vomiting unless instructed
- • Rinse mouth with water if safe
- • Call poison control or veterinarian
Shock
- • Keep pet warm with blankets
- • Elevate hind legs slightly
- • Keep airway clear
- • Monitor breathing and pulse
- • Handle gently, minimize stress
After-Hours Emergency Options
While our doctor is on call, here are additional resources for severe emergencies requiring immediate treatment.
Our Emergency Protocol
Call Our Main Number
Dr. McElwee is on call 24/7 for emergency guidance
(770) 382-8570
Emergency Assessment
The doctor will assess the situation and provide instructions
Treatment Options
Arrangements for immediate care or referral as needed
Important Reminders
Keep Our Number Handy
Save (770) 382-8570 in your phone for quick access during emergencies.
Stay Connected
Keep your contact information updated so we can reach you quickly.
Know Your Pet
Be prepared to provide your pet's weight, age, and medical history.
Don't Wait – Get Help Now
In an emergency, every second counts. Call us immediately for professional guidance and care.
Dr. McElwee is on call 24/7 for emergency guidance