When faced with a dog emergency, the stress and anxiety can be overwhelming. I have been in this situation way too many times with my beloved dogs. It is hard enough to deal with the emotion behind it all, let alone know what to ask the treating vet when you are so worried and anxiety.
In such critical moments, knowing the right questions to ask your emergency vet can make a significant difference in not only in understanding your pet’s condition but also in feeling supported during a challenging time.
Here’s a guide to help you navigate this situation with empathy and care.
What Is the Diagnosis?
Once your dog has been assessed, they will usually give you a diagnosis or some options on what they think the issue is. Ask lots of questions and get the pros and cons of each solution so you can understand what is the next best step for your dog.
What Treatment Options Are Available?
Emergency situations often come with multiple treatment paths, many of them expensive. Ask about the options available, including the benefits and risks of each. You might say, “I want to make the best decision for my dog. Can you explain the different treatment options and what you would recommend?” Don’t make an expensive decisions based on pure emotion.
What Are the Costs Involved?
Veterinary care can be costly, especially in emergencies. While it may feel uncomfortable to discuss finances, it’s essential for planning. Approach this delicately: “I want to ensure I can provide the best care for my dog. Can you give me an estimate of the costs involved with the treatments you’ve discussed?” There have been many times I have not taken their expensive solution and instead opted for monitoring or medication which has solved the issue. Emergency vets are great at suggesting an expensive blood test, ultra sound or MRI which might be more of a later solution rather than needed a ‘need it now’ solution.
What Is the Prognosis?
Understanding the likely outcomes of your dog’s condition can help you prepare emotionally. Ask: “What is the prognosis for my dog with the chosen treatment? What should I expect moving forward?” Understanding what is involved in the disease, injury or or sickness your dog has can help you care for them moving forward.
How Can I Care for My Dog at Home?
Once your dog receives treatment, knowing how to care for them at home is vital. “I want to ensure my dog is comfortable and healing properly. What specific care instructions should I follow at home?” Ask if they can prescribe medication or treatment which will allow them to be cared for in your home rather than a cold vetinerary practise.
What Are The Signs I Should Watch For?
Being aware of what to monitor can give you peace of mind. You might ask, “What signs should I look for that would indicate their condition is worsening? You know what is normal for you dog and listen to your gut instinct.
Can You Provide Resources for Support?
Sometimes, you might need additional emotional support or resources. Don’t hesitate to ask, “Are there any resources or support groups you recommend for dog owners going through emergencies? There are also a lot of Facebook groups you can seek advice from HOWEVER remember these are not trained professionals so professional advice is always recommended. (common sense prevails)
Navigating a dog emergency is undoubtedly challenging, but asking the right questions can help demystify the process and empower you as an owner. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; your vet is there to help you through every step. And seek the support of friends or family during this time as you will also need it.