We understand that there are elements outside our control, no matter how cautious you are as a pet owner. If your pet is potentially experiencing an emergency during business hours, call us at (406)752-7387. After hours emergencies and questions are referred to Flathead Pet Emergency (call (406)257-6870).

The following is a list of emergencies which should be seen immediately:

• Hit by car, especially if your pet seems lethargic or not itself
• Trauma, such as broken bones or animal attack
• Fish hook in mouth (or porcupine quills)
• Bloat (distended belly)
• Severe bleeding or bleeding that does not appear to be stopping
• Difficulty breathing or nonstop coughing
• Choking
• Inability to urinate
• Inability to defecate
• Eye injuries
• Toxic ingestion, such as rat poison, antifreeze, xylitol, or marijuana
• Seizures and/or difficulty walking (staggering, walking drunk)
• Obvious pain or extreme anxiety
• Heat stroke (heavy panting, drooling, dry or bright red gums, collapse)
• Severe vomiting and/or diarrhea

Emergency Resources:

Visit the ASPCA Poison Control webpage–especially for toxic and nontoxic plants and respective images–or Pet Poison Helpline to get reliable information on pet toxicities.

Xylitol is incredibly toxic to pets. See a list of products which include xylitol to be sure you keep it away from your pets at this website.

Be prepared in case of emergency with the AVMA’s First Aid Tips for Pet Owners webpage.