There are certain situations which require an emergency trip to the vet for immediate attention. As a pet owner you should know them. There are the obvious emergencies wherein you have witnessed your pet get injured, such as being struck by a car. Here is a list of other signs that you need to take your pet to the vet immediately.

• Breathing has stopped or heartbeat cannot be found.
• An active seizure is occurring or recently occurred.
• The animal is not conscious and cannot be revived.
• There are obvious or possible broken bones.
• Your pet's legs give out and it is unable to stand.
• Unusual loose stool or vomiting recurring for 24 hours.
• Vomiting blood, blood in the stool or urine.
• Something lodged in your pet's throat or the inability to breathe fully.
• There has been possible consumption of poisons or toxic substances including cleaning agents, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, antifreeze, herbicides, rat poison, petroleum products, etc.
• Gagging or unsuccessful attempts to vomit when accompanied by a turgid or hard and swollen belly.
• Any bleeding from the eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Lack of ability to urinate, or to control urination.
• Unusual actions such as whimpering, shaking, signs of intense pain, or sudden change in socializing habits.
• Sudden onset of disorientation or commencement of bumping into things.
• Apparent onset of blindness or obvious injury or irritation of the eye(s).
• If mother delivering pups or kittens fails to deliver the next one of the litter within three to four hours.

While we all hope to never be these circumstances, it is important to recognize that quick action on your part can make all the difference for your pet.