What to do if you can't drive your pet to the emergency vet

Bringing a sick or injured animal to a veterinary clinic, particularly if it is in the middle of the night, is not always an easy feat. Whether concerned about transport, childcare or causing their pet further stress, many owners worry about bringing their animal to a veterinary clinic during an emergency.

Thankfully, there are lots of options available during an emergency situation. Whether this means organising a home visit or using a taxi service, your pet should be able to get the care they need promptly.

Key takeaways

• Home visits are often possible out of hours, meaning your pet can be seen from the comfort of their home
• If you cannot personally drive your pet to a clinic, perhaps you can ask a friend or neighbour, or use a pet taxi service
• Your local veterinary team will have experience when it comes to getting sick pets seen, so call them for your options, if you’re unsure what to do
  

Why Getting to a Vet Isn't Always Possible

There are a myriad of reasons why bringing a pet to the clinic physically may be very difficult.

Common Reasons Owners Can't Travel

Some of the more common barriers include:

• Being disabled or elderly and perhaps having a hard time physically moving the pet
• Not having access to any transport
• Having recently drunk alcohol or taken recreational drugs, so driving is not an option
• Caring for sleeping children in the home, with no other adult present
• Very distressed or large animals can be much more of a challenge to transport
  

When Moving Your Pet Could Make Things Worse

There are a small number of situations when it would actually be dangerous to try and move or transport your pet. This is the case, for example, if the pet:

• Is in extreme respiratory distress and getting more distressed when handled
• Is experiencing high levels of pain which worsen if touched or moved
• Is in a dangerous or traumatic situation, such as being trapped, entangled, or seriously injured in a way where moving them could worsen their condition.
  

Call an At-Home Emergency Vet

Contact an at-home emergency vet to see if it would be an option to get your pet seen in your own house. While this is not going to be a suitable option for every situation, it can be an easier way of having your pet assessed quickly, without causing them additional stress.

How an At-Home Vet Works

The veterinarian will come to your home at an arranged time, and will be able to examine your pet and will have some basic equipment and medications.

What They Can Treat Without a Clinic

Certain injuries and illnesses can be treated without the use of a veterinary clinic. This is the case, for example, with minor skin wounds, corneal ulcers, some infections and recent toxicities (when vomiting can be induced).

At-home vets are also able to perform euthanasia. This means that your pet can be put to sleep from the comfort of their own home.

Start With Emergency Phone Triage

The first step is to call the emergency line, so the available options can be discussed and the best plan can be made for you and your furry friend. Read here to learn more about our service.

What the Veterinary Nurse Will Ask

The veterinary nurse on the phone will want to know what is wrong with your pet, when the symptoms began and if they have recently seen a vet or taken any medicine. They will also enquire about your pet’s age and breed and they may wish to know how far away from the clinic you are.

First Aid You Can Do While You Wait

Sometimes, there are certain things you can be doing in the meantime to support your pet. The nurse can talk you through what is best, as this will be very case specific.

For example, they may discuss that you gently bathe any wounds or use a buster collar to prevent your dog from licking at them. They may also discuss keeping your pet confined to a small area to limit any movement, if they have recently injured themself.

Other Ways to Reach a Clinic If You Need One

Not everyone will be able to drop everything and drive to a vet clinic during emergency hours.

Taxis and Pet-Friendly Transport

Depending on your location, there will often be a pet ambulance service you can use. Where this is not available, contact local taxi companies as many will have a vehicle that can be used for pet transport.

Asking a Neighbour, Friend or Local Help

You may have a family member, friend or neighbour who is able to step in and help. They can be the ones to transport your pet to the clinic or perhaps they may babysit your children while you bring your pet to be seen.

How to Move an Injured Pet Safely

The most important thing when moving a pet is to ensure they are as comfortable as possible and that no further damage is caused.

Moving a Dog

Support the whole body, and use a towel or duvet as a stretcher if needed for a large dog. Try not to put pressure on any painful areas and keep their head and spine straight where possible. Use a muzzle if there is a chance your dog may bite you when in pain.

Moving a Cat or Small Pet

It is sometimes necessary to use a towel and thick garden gloves to put an aggressive or very stressed cat in a carrier. Ensure the carrier is secure and has a thick lining.

For smaller pets like rabbits and guinea pigs, try to keep them warm and quiet and do not restrain them too tightly when placing them in their carrier. They will need to have food and water with them at all times.

What Not to Do in a Pet Emergency

As much as you can, try to stay calm and keep your voice lowered. Your pet will soon pick up on your stress levels and this could have a knock on effect.

Never give any medicine without first consulting with a vet, as this could do more harm than good.

It is best not to force-feed either food or water to a sick or injured cat or dog, as this could get inhaled, causing pneumonia.

Get Emergency Veterinary Advice for Your Pet

With Veteris 24-7 Vet Clinics, there is always someone available to help you and your pet. Call them up if you are concerned, and they can help determine what can be done to help your pet.

Can't Get to the Vet: FAQs

What if I don't have a car and my pet needs a vet?

Without your own car, you may need to get a lift from someone nearby or to use a pet transport service. In some cases,, there would also be the option of at-home vet visits.

Can an emergency vet come to my home?

Absolutely, many emergency vets would be able to see you at home. If they determine your pet needs further diagnostics or treatment in the clinic, they may need to be seen there afterwards.

Is it safe to move an injured pet myself?

Move any injured animal with care, supporting their full weight. As injured or worried animals could bite or scratch, be very cautious and use a muzzle if needed.

What should I do while I wait for help?

Try to keep your pet calm by stroking them and talking to them soothingly. Keep them warm and on a padded and comfortable bed, away from other pets or people. Do also monitor closely for any new symptoms.