11117 Jefferson Ave.

Newport News, VA 23601

Dog Emergencies

Although every loving dog owner hopes it never happens, emergencies do occur, and when they do, we'll be here to help any time—day or night. We are well-trained in emergency medicine, including life-saving treatments and surgery.

There are pet emergencies, and then there are issues that can wait until morning. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us for more insight. You know your dog best—especially if you suspect an emergency.

Symptoms that Can be Life-Threatening without Immediate Attention

  1. The inability to urinate. Your dog will probably be in obvious discomfort and may even start to panic. There may be a complete blockage somewhere in the urinary tract, and our veterinarian should see your dog as quickly as possible. The inability to pass waste is a life-threatening emergency.
  2. Unconsciousness or coma.
  3. Seizure—especially if your dog doesn't come out of it promptly.
  4. Loss of balance, such as when your dog can't right itself or cannot maintain its balance and is falling over.
  5. Changes in respiration, including when your dog is gagging, his mouth or tongue is turning blue, or if he collapses and can't get up (these can mean he's not getting enough oxygen).
  6. Penetrating wounds to the chest; deep lacerations or punctures to the chest cavity.
  7. Ingestion of known poisons.
  8. Uncontrolled vomiting or diarrhea.
  9. Uncontrolled bleeding.
  10. A fever greater than 104 and profound lethargy.
  11. Bulging eyes and sudden blindness, or any significant trauma to the eyes.
  12. Burns or injuries in which a bone becomes exposed

Safely Transporting Your Dog

If your dog is injured or in extreme pain, they may act aggressively. The first step is to protect yourself and then support your dog's neck and back if they've suffered a spinal injury.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) shares the following approach to transporting a hurt dog:

"Approach your dog slowly and calmly; kneel and say his name. If the dog shows aggression, call for help. If he's passive, fashion a makeshift stretcher and gently lift him onto it. Take care to support his neck and back if he's suffered any spinal injuries."

Once you feel confident and safe transporting your dog, immediately bring him to our office. Ask a friend or family member to call the clinic (757-595-3337) so that our staff knows to expect you and your dog.

We promise to treat you and your dog with the utmost respect and kindness—the kind of care you both deserve. Our mission is to not only help pets live happy, healthy lives but to help nurture the human-animal bond as well. That's why we place a strong emphasis on client education and take time to answer any questions you have about your pet's health and at-home care.

If your dog has an emergency, we are here to help. Call Warwick Animal Hospital in Newport News, VA, for emergency assistance at 757-595-3337. Please call before bringing your dog in; if critical care is needed, we can direct you to the PARC Emergency facility, where critical care is available 24/7.

Contact Us

We look forward to hearing from you

Location

Find us on the map

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00am- 5:30pm

Tuesday:

8:00am- 5:30pm

Wednesday:

8:00am- 5:30pm

Thursday:

8:00am- 5:30pm

Friday:

8:00am- 5:30pm

Saturday:

8:00am- 12:00pm

Sunday:

Closed