Discuss Pet Illness With Our Cornerstone Animal Hospital Vet

Just like humans, pets can fall ill unexpectedly and require the care of a skilled veterinarian. At Cornerstone Animal Hospital in North Richland Hills, TX, our veterinarians are fully equipped to provide a comprehensive range of services.

Emergency versus Urgent Care

Caring for a sick pet can be stressful, and it’s often difficult to determine whether your pet’s condition requires urgent or emergency care. Here’s how to tell the difference:

  • Emergency Pet Care. This care is for life-threatening situations. Clear emergencies include collapse, unconsciousness, broken bones, severe wounds, heavy bleeding, and poisoning symptoms.
  • Urgent Care for Your Pet. These issues aren’t as severe as emergencies but still require prompt attention. Examples include not eating or drinking, difficulty urinating or defecating, and minor cuts. If you’re unsure, feel free to call our North Richland Hills office for guidance from our team.

Why Would a Pet Visit a Vet?

Here are 10 common reasons pets are brought to the vet:

  • Soft tissue injury (bruises and contusions)
  • Skin allergy or infection
  • Skin mass or tag
  • Ear infection
  • Dental disease
  • Urinary tract infection or kidney disease
  • Diabetes
  • Vomiting and/or diarrhea
  • Not eating or drinking
  • Arthritis

Symptoms to Watch For

Since pets can’t tell us where they hurt or how they feel, knowing their normal behavior and recognizing changes is essential. If needed, seek veterinary care promptly. Watch for these signs:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea. Occasional vomiting may occur if pets eat too fast or play right after eating, but repeated vomiting over 24 hours requires a vet visit. Occasional diarrhea may not be serious, but persistent episodes could indicate gastrointestinal issues needing veterinary attention.
  • Not eating. Missing one meal might be okay, but skipping multiple meals needs evaluation.
  • Lethargy.
  • Hair loss, itchy skin, or rash.
  • Excessive urination or urinating in unusual places.

Contact Our Cornerstone Animal Hospital Today

If you’re in the North Richland Hills area and need expert veterinary care or advice regarding your pet’s illness, call Cornerstone Animal Hospital at (817) 514-8387 to schedule an appointment today.