When bad things happen to our four- legged friends, the best thing you can do is be prepared.

Program these numbers into your phones:

(1) Your veterinarian’s office

(2) Your closest veterinary emergency clinic

(3) ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center
       1-888-426-4435

*They charge a $50 fee per case with no charge for follow up calls

Note: there is a human poison control center that has a toll free number and doesn’t charge for a telephone call, BUT animals are not people in fur clothes and there are many instances in which medications affect animals very differently than humans.

You don’t want to be rummaging through phone books or scrolling through websites when your dog jumps through a plate glass window or gobbles up the Motrin that fell on the floor.

Sometimes every second counts- don’t waste them: know where to find help BEFORE you need it.

I’m also a big fan of the American Red Cross. Many chapters have Pet First Aid & CPR courses. Take one. The more you know, the more you can help your pet if an accident happens.

Expect the best, prepare for the worst…and enjoy life with your dog.

Best,

Liz Devitt, DVM