Pet Emergency? Here’s Exactly What to Do—Step by Step
Your dog just collapsed. Your cat’s breathing looks off. There’s blood, panic, and your brain is racing. Do you Google it? Wait it out? Call the vet? You don’t have time to second-guess.
In a true pet emergency, what you do first can mean the difference between life and loss.
Every year, thousands of pet parents face sudden medical crises—bleeding paws, swallowed pills, seizures, choking, or worse. And when it happens, most of us feel unprepared. It's not that you don't care—it's that no one ever showed you exactly what to do.
This guide is different.
It gives you calm, clear, vet-informed steps to follow when your pet’s health is on the line. You’ll learn how to spot a real emergency, act quickly, and avoid dangerous delays. And you'll discover how Daisy, your AI-powered pet assistant, helps guide your actions in real-time—before you even leave the house.
Let’s walk through the exact steps to take when every second counts.
Recognize the Signs of a Real Pet Emergency
In a crisis, knowing the difference between a true emergency and a non-urgent issue can save your pet’s life. Here are the most critical signs that require immediate veterinary attention:
Top 10 Emergency Symptoms in Pets
Difficulty Breathing or Choking
Gasping, wheezing, or blue/pale gums indicate respiratory distress. This could be due to choking, allergic reactions, or heart failure.Uncontrolled Bleeding
Bleeding that doesn't stop within five minutes, or bleeding from the nose, mouth, or rectum, is a serious concern.Seizures or Collapse
Sudden loss of consciousness, convulsions, or unresponsiveness are signs of neurological emergencies.Swollen or Painful Abdomen
A bloated abdomen can indicate gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), which is life-threatening.Repeated Vomiting or Diarrhea
Multiple episodes, especially with blood, can lead to severe dehydration and indicate serious underlying issues.Inability to Urinate or Defecate
Straining without results or signs of pain during elimination can signal blockages or infections.Eye Injuries or Sudden Blindness
Any trauma or sudden changes in vision require prompt evaluation to prevent permanent damage.Exposure to Toxins
Ingestion of substances like antifreeze, chocolate, or certain plants necessitates immediate veterinary care.Severe Pain or Lameness
Crying out, limping, or reluctance to move can indicate fractures or internal injuries.Loss of Consciousness or Extreme Lethargy
Sudden collapse or unresponsiveness is a critical emergency.
If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Having a plan in place, like using Daisy's real-time guidance, can make all the difference in these critical moments.
Step-by-Step: What to Do in a Pet Emergency
In a medical emergency, you don’t have time to Google symptoms or second-guess what’s happening. You need fast, clear action—and Daisy is designed to help you do just that. (Download Daisy for free on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store).
Here’s exactly what to do, step by step:
Step 1: Stay Calm and Open Daisy’s Health Triage Tool
First, take a deep breath. Your pet can sense your anxiety, and staying calm will help both of you. Then, open Daisy and begin the Health Triage assessment.
Daisy will ask a few quick questions about your pet’s behavior and symptoms—things like:
What issue is your pet experiencing?
Are they breathing normally?
Is there visible bleeding, swelling, or vomiting?
Based on your answers, Daisy determines if this is a true emergency and immediately guides your next steps.
Step 2: Get Instant Guidance and Directions for Emergency Care
If it is an emergency, Daisy will:
Explain what’s happening in clear, simple terms
Provide first aid steps to take right now—whether it’s applying pressure to a wound, performing CPR, or safely immobilizing your pet
Provide directions to the nearest emergency vet and instructions on what to do and say when you get there
These steps are tailored to your pet’s specific condition, so you’re never left guessing.
Step 3: Transport Your Pet Safely
Use a towel, blanket, or carrier to move your pet as gently and securely as possible. Avoid unnecessary movement, especially if Daisy’s triage recommends spinal precautions or first aid on the way.
If en route care is needed, Daisy will walk you through it in real time.
Step 4: Keep Daisy Open Until You’re in Good Hands
Daisy stays with you the entire way—offering guidance, reassurance, and next steps. From triage to transport to post-care, Daisy becomes your co-pilot in the moments that matter most.
Common Pet Emergencies and How to Respond
Emergencies can happen at any time, and being prepared can make all the difference. Here are some common pet emergencies and the steps you can take to help your pet until professional veterinary care is available.
Bleeding, Cuts, and Wounds
What to Do:
Stay Safe: Approach your pet calmly to avoid causing additional stress.
Control Bleeding: Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or sterile gauze to the wound for several minutes.
Protect the Wound: Once bleeding is controlled, cover the area with a clean bandage.
Seek Veterinary Care: Transport your pet to the nearest veterinary clinic for further evaluation.
Note: If bleeding is severe or doesn't stop within five minutes, seek immediate veterinary attention.
Choking or Breathing Difficulties
What to Do:
Check for Obstructions: If safe, look into your pet's mouth to see if an object is visible and can be removed.
Perform Heimlich Maneuver: For dogs, apply quick, upward abdominal thrusts. For cats, gently compress the chest.
Seek Immediate Care: Even if the object is removed, breathing difficulties can persist. Visit a veterinarian promptly.
Note: Avoid putting your fingers in your pet's mouth if you cannot see the object, as this may cause injury.
Poisoning
What to Do:
Identify the Toxin: Determine what your pet ingested, including the amount and time of ingestion.
Contact Poison Control: Call the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 or your veterinarian for guidance.
Do Not Induce Vomiting: Unless instructed by a professional, do not attempt to make your pet vomit.
Visit the Vet: Bring any packaging or information about the toxin to assist in treatment.
Note: Common toxins include chocolate, xylitol, certain plants, and household chemicals.
Seizures
What to Do:
Ensure Safety: Move objects away from your pet to prevent injury during the seizure.
Do Not Restrain: Avoid touching or holding your pet during the seizure.
Time the Seizure: Note the duration and any behaviors observed.
Seek Veterinary Care: After the seizure ends, contact your veterinarian for further evaluation.
Note: If a seizure lasts more than five minutes or multiple seizures occur in a short period, seek emergency care immediately.
Heatstroke
What to Do:
Move to a Cool Area: Immediately bring your pet to a shaded or air-conditioned environment.
Cool Down: Apply cool (not cold) water to your pet's body and offer small amounts of water to drink.
Monitor Temperature: Use a rectal thermometer if available; normal temperature ranges from 100°F to 102.5°F.
Visit the Vet: Even if your pet appears to recover, heatstroke can cause internal damage.
Note: Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, and collapse.
When to Go Now vs. When to Wait
In a pet health crisis, determining whether to seek immediate emergency care or monitor the situation can be challenging. Recognizing the signs of true emergencies versus urgent but less critical issues is essential for timely and appropriate care.
True Emergencies: Act Immediately
The following symptoms indicate a life-threatening situation requiring immediate veterinary attention:
Difficulty Breathing: Gasping, wheezing, or open-mouth breathing, especially in cats, can signal respiratory distress.
Uncontrolled Bleeding: Bleeding that doesn't stop within five minutes or bleeding from the nose, mouth, or rectum.
Seizures: Multiple seizures or a seizure lasting more than a few minutes.
Inability to Urinate or Defecate: Straining without success, especially in male cats, can indicate a blockage.
Swollen or Bloated Abdomen: A distended abdomen, particularly if hard to the touch, may suggest bloat, a life-threatening condition.
Ingestion of Toxic Substances: Consuming items like antifreeze, chocolate, or certain plants requires immediate care.
Loss of Consciousness or Collapse: Sudden collapse or unresponsiveness.
In these scenarios, it's crucial to seek emergency veterinary care without delay.
Urgent but Not Immediate: Monitor and Consult
Some situations, while concerning, may not require immediate emergency care but should still be addressed promptly:
Persistent Vomiting or Diarrhea: More than two episodes in 24 hours without other severe symptoms.
Minor Wounds or Lacerations: Small cuts that are not bleeding profusely.
Limping or Lameness: Sudden limping without signs of severe pain or swelling.
Mild Allergic Reactions: Itching or minor swelling without breathing difficulties.
Eye or Ear Infections: Redness, discharge, or irritation.
In these cases, monitor your pet's condition and consult your veterinarian for guidance.
Daisy's Role in Triage
Daisy's Health Triage tool can assist in evaluating your pet's symptoms, helping you determine the urgency of the situation. By answering a series of questions, Daisy provides recommendations on whether immediate care is necessary or if monitoring is appropriate.
What to Keep in a Pet First Aid Kit
Being prepared with a well-stocked pet first aid kit can make a significant difference during emergencies. Whether at home or on the go, having the right supplies readily available ensures you can provide immediate care to your pet when needed.
Essential Items for Your Pet First Aid Kit
Based on recommendations from the American Red Cross and the American Kennel Club, your pet first aid kit should include:
Gauze Pads and Rolls: For wrapping wounds or muzzling an injured pet.
Non-Stick Bandages and Adhesive Tape: To secure dressings without sticking to fur.
Hydrogen Peroxide (3%): Can be used to induce vomiting if instructed by a veterinarian.
Antibiotic Ointment: For minor cuts and abrasions.
Digital Thermometer: To check your pet's temperature (note: normal temperature for dogs and cats is between 100°F and 102.5°F).
Tweezers: For removing splinters or ticks.
Scissors with Blunt Ends: To cut bandages or fur near wounds.
Disposable Gloves: To maintain hygiene and prevent infection.
Saline Solution: For flushing out wounds or eyes.
Emergency Blanket: To keep your pet warm in case of shock or cold exposure.
Muzzle: Even the gentlest pets may bite when injured or frightened.
Leash and Collar: To control and transport your pet safely.
Pet's Medical Records and Emergency Contacts: Including your veterinarian's contact information and any known medical conditions.
Regularly check your kit to replace used or expired items. Additionally, consider customizing your kit based on your pet's specific needs and any activities you frequently engage in together.
Final Thoughts: Be Ready Before You Need to Be
In a pet emergency, what you do first matters most.
From recognizing the signs to taking swift action and getting the right help, having a plan—and the right tools—can mean the difference between a close call and a devastating loss.
This guide has given you the steps. Daisy helps you take them.
By combining real-time health triage, emergency vet location, first aid instructions, and pre-filled communication tools, Daisy acts as your pet’s first responder—right from your phone. It’s not just peace of mind. It’s practical, possibly life-saving support when panic hits and time is short.
You love your pet like family. Now you have a plan that treats them like it, too.
Be ready before you need to be. Install Daisy today from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.