It’s 2am. You’re half asleep, shuffling to the kitchen for a glass of water — and then you hear it. That unmistakable sound of your dog vomiting. Or you find your cat hiding in a corner, breathing oddly and refusing to move. Panic sets in, because your regular vet is closed, and you have no idea what’s happening. When your pet is suddenly unwell after hours, knowing where to turn is critical — and services like an emergency vet Rosebery can provide immediate, professional care when your usual clinic isn’t available.
But even before you reach for the car keys, there are a few key steps you can take to stay calm, assess the situation, and make the best decision for your pet.
First, Assess the Situation
Not every middle-of-the-night issue needs an emergency vet visit, but some absolutely do. The trick is knowing the difference.
Here are some signs that your pet needs urgent medical attention right away:
- Difficulty breathing or rapid, shallow breathing
- Seizures or collapsing
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhoea (especially with blood)
- Swollen or bloated abdomen
- Inability to stand or walk
- Ingestion of something toxic (e.g. chocolate, medications, household chemicals)
- Trauma (such as being hit by a car or falling from height)
- Signs of extreme pain (whimpering, panting, aggressive behaviour)
If you’re unsure, it’s always better to call an emergency vet clinic for advice. A quick phone conversation can help you determine whether you should come in immediately or monitor at home until morning.
Stay Calm — Your Pet Feels Your Energy
Easier said than done, but try to remain as composed as possible. Animals are highly attuned to their owners’ emotions. If you’re panicked or frantic, it can escalate your pet’s distress. Speak in a low, soothing voice, keep movement gentle, and avoid crowding them, especially if they’re in pain or disoriented.
Safely Transporting Your Pet
If you’ve decided to take your pet to an emergency clinic, make sure you prepare properly:
- Use a carrier for cats or small dogs to prevent injury during transport
- Bring a towel or blanket for comfort and to keep them warm
- If your pet is injured, try to keep movement to a minimum
- Avoid giving food, water, or medications unless instructed
It’s also a good idea to bring any medications your pet is currently on, and a sample of vomit, stool, or whatever symptom you’re concerned about — it can be helpful for diagnosis.
Have an Emergency Plan Before You Need One
Most of us don’t think about emergency vets until we need one — and by then, it’s usually at the worst time possible. Take 10 minutes now to prepare:
- Save the contact number and address of your nearest emergency vet
- Know your pet’s normal vital signs (like gum colour, breathing rate, and temperature)
- Keep a pet first aid kit on hand — include gauze, antiseptic wipes, gloves, tweezers, and a digital thermometer
Being prepared doesn’t mean you’ll avoid emergencies, but it can make a stressful moment much more manageable.
Common Overnight Emergencies — and What to Do
Here’s how to handle some of the most frequent after-hours pet issues:
1. Vomiting or Diarrhoea
If it happens once and your pet seems otherwise alert, you can likely wait and monitor. But repeated episodes — especially with blood, weakness, or dehydration — need urgent care.
2. Suspected Poisoning
Call a poison helpline or emergency clinic immediately. Don’t induce vomiting unless told to — it could make things worse depending on what was ingested.
3. Breathing Trouble
Laboured or noisy breathing is always a red flag. Get your pet seen as soon as possible — breathing issues can escalate rapidly.
4. Injury or Trauma
Even if there are no visible wounds, internal bleeding or shock can occur. Err on the side of caution and seek professional care if your pet has fallen, been hit, or involved in a fight.
After the Emergency
Once the immediate danger has passed, follow your vet’s instructions carefully. Monitor your pet closely, and don’t hesitate to call with any follow-up concerns. Emergencies can be traumatic for pets and owners alike — so allow space for recovery, rest, and reassurance.
You might also want to check in with your regular vet to ensure continuity of care, especially if medication or follow-up appointments are needed.
When your pet is unwell and the rest of the world is asleep, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you’re not alone. Knowing where to go, who to call, and what signs to watch for can give you clarity in the chaos. Emergencies are scary, but with a little preparation and quick thinking, you can give your pet the help they need — right when it matters most.