What is an emergency?
An emergency is any situation where your pet's life, limb, sight or breathing is at immediate risk, or when severe pain, heavy bleeding, collapse, severe trauma, head injury, or difficulty breathing occurs. If you are unsure, treat the situation as an emergency and contact us immediately.
Examples of emergencies
- Difficulty breathing, choking or collapse
- Severe or uncontrolled bleeding
- Hit by a car, major trauma, or obvious fractures
- Ingestion of toxic substances (household poisons, certain foods, medications)
- Seizures or severe, continuous vomiting/diarrhoea
- Heat stroke or severe dehydration
What to do right now
- Stay calm and keep your pet contained and warm.
- Call us immediately before travelling so we can prepare: (+27) 10 591 2530.
- If your pet is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth.
- Transport your pet to the clinic as safely and quickly as possible — use a crate or blanket as needed.
If we are closed and you cannot reach us, please seek the nearest 24-hour veterinary emergency hospital. This page is for general guidance only.