If you’re a pet owner in Katy, Texas, you might wonder which kinds of common pet emergencies are the most likely to occur in this part of the United States. Texas pets have specific risks that their owners should know about, and we’ve got the information you need.
In the article below, you’ll find a list of the six most common pet emergencies in Texas. Read through this list and learn more about which risks to expect when you have a pet in this area. From there, you can also determine when it might be time to see an emergency vet in Katy, TX.
6 Common Pet Emergencies to Know about in Katy, TX
6 common pet emergencies that pet parents in Katy, TX should look out for include:
Heatstroke
Texas is a very hot state, especially in the summer months. Temperatures regularly climb above 100F, and some have even been recorded over 110F in extreme circumstances. Because of this, heatstroke is unfortunately very common in pets who live in Katy.
Heatstroke can occur when a pet is left outdoors for too long without access to shade, cooler temperatures, or water. It can also happen if you overwork your pet with walking or exercising during very high temperatures. The most common cause of heatstroke, however, is leaving pets alone in a car on a hot day. This type of heatstroke is often fatal.
Snake Bites
Texas is also home to many varieties of snakes, several of which are venomous. If your pet is bitten by a venomous snake, this may constitute a pet emergency. Learn how to recognize the signs of snake bites in your pet so you can respond quickly if your pet is bitten.
If you see the snake, try to make note of its appearance, but do not approach it. If you do not see the snake, don’t go looking for it. Take your pet to the vet or emergency vet in Katy and provide as much information as you can.
Burned Paw Pads
Because of the high heat in Texas, pets may easily suffer from burned paw pads, especially during the summer months. Dogs who walk on hot pavement for more than a very short time may burn their paw pads, and cats who are allowed outdoors and who walk on roofs or sidewalks may do the same.
Consider purchasing booties for your dog if you need to walk him/her during the hottest parts of the day. Otherwise, try walking at night or first thing in the morning, or opt for a route that goes through grass instead of on pavement.
Swallowed Objects
Pets in Texas and around the world may sometimes swallow foreign objects that can cause serious health problems, which is why this is considered to be one of the common pet emergencies you may encounter. If your pet swallows an object that is not food, this should always be treated as an emergency. This behavior could cause a blockage in your pet’s digestive tract which could lead to death very quickly.
Additionally, it is possible for your pet to attempt to swallow something he shouldn’t and then choke on the object instead. If your pet chokes on something, go to the emergency vet in Katy without hesitation.
Animal Attacks
With many wild animals and pets alike in Texas, it is sadly not uncommon for beloved family pets to be attacked by another animal. Pets may be attacked by wild animals even when spending time in their own yards, and they may get into fights with other pets in the area just as easily.
If you do not know the animal that has attacked your pet, go to the emergency vet immediately. Additionally, if your pet has a broken bone, visible bleeding, or is extremely tender to the touch anywhere on his/her body, this should also be treated as an emergency.
Vehicle Trauma
Sadly, vehicle traumas—that is, accidents involving cars and other vehicles—are also common pet emergencies that can occur in Katy. With so many people living in this large state, it’s not uncommon for pets to be struck by vehicles while they are outdoors.
The best way to avoid this risk is to always keep your pet on a leash when outside, and to never let animals roam freely outdoors. Keeping pets indoors and leashed can reduce the risk of vehicle trauma, but some pets may be escape artists who could get hurt anyway. If this happens, go to the emergency vet without waiting.
Call Our Team at VEG for All Common Pet Emergencies in Katy, TX
This list does not cover all the potential pet emergencies you might encounter as a pet owner in Katy. However, it can give you a good idea of the most common issues you should be on the lookout for to ensure you can take the best possible care of your pet.
If you do encounter any of these emergencies, or any others, be sure to take your pet to the emergency vet for treatment right away. The sooner you respond, the more likely your pet will be to make a recovery.
At VEG Katy, we’re equipped to handle all common pet emergencies, and uncommon ones, you and your pet may encounter. There’s nothing more important to us than your pet’s health and wellbeing, which is why we’re looking forward to caring for pets in Katy, TX and surrounding areas. If you experience an emergency with your pet, or if you have any questions regarding your pet’s health, never hesitate to call us. You’ll speak directly with an emergency veterinarian who’s dedicated to helping you and your pet.
