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Dogoverse Emergency Guide

What’s an Emergency? What to do & not to do.

Use this quick guide to decide fast, stabilize safely, and contact a veterinarian. When in doubt, treat it as an emergency.

Go to a vet NOW

  • Severe bleeding, deep wounds, suspected fracture, road accident/fall
  • Breathing trouble, choking, blue/pale gums, collapsed/unconscious
  • Seizures (first-time, cluster, >2 minutes), head injury
  • Suspected poisoning (rat poison, xylitol, chocolate, pesticides), snake bite
  • Heatstroke (very hot body, heavy panting, drooling, wobbling)
  • Continuous vomiting/diarrhea with blood or weakness; swollen, painful belly
  • Urinary blockage (straining with no urine), whelping trouble (>2 hrs no pup)

Stabilize first

  • Stay calm, ensure safety. Muzzle gently if needed (pain can cause bites).
  • Airway & breathing: clear visible obstructions, don’t sweep blindly.
  • Apply firm pressure to bleeding wounds with gauze for 5–10 minutes.
  • Keep your dog warm and still, avoid moving fractures.
  • Heatstroke: move to shade, tepid water, fan. No ice baths.
  • During seizures: dark quiet room, remove hazards. Don’t restrain.

Do NOT do

  • Never give human painkillers (ibuprofen, diclofenac, aspirin).
  • Do not induce vomiting unless a vet instructs.
  • Do not apply powders, turmeric, or creams on deep wounds.
  • Do not delay emergency care with home remedies.
  • Do not force food/water if unconscious or seizing.

When & how to call a vet

Call immediately for any emergency. Share clearly:

  • Age, breed, weight, symptoms, and onset time
  • Known conditions/meds, possible toxins or trauma
  • Vital signs if known (gum color, breathing rate)

Poisoning

  • Common: rat poison, chocolate, xylitol, grapes, pesticides, human meds.
  • Remove access, save packaging, call vet immediately.
  • Never induce vomiting unless instructed. No milk/food “to dilute”.

Home First-Aid Kit

  • Povidone-iodine, gauze, bandages, tape, cotton
  • Saline, blunt scissors, tweezers, thermometer
  • Muzzle/cloth, E-collar, tick remover, cold pack
  • ORS, vet-approved anti-allergy meds
  • Vet’s phone & nearest 24/7 clinic saved

Transport tips

  • Use board/blanket as stretcher, keep spine straight.
  • Keep warm for shock, ventilate in heat.
  • Have someone monitor your dog en route.

After-hours plan

  • Save 24/7 clinic and ambulance numbers in advance.
  • Keep medical records & meds ready-to-grab.
  • Assign family roles: who drives, backup rides, nearest vet.
This guide is for guidance only. Always follow professional veterinary advice.