• If you live in Skagit County

  or nearby please call us before attempting first aid.
• Use caution in handling ill or injured animals. Even the friendliest animal may bite if in pain or seizuring. As a safety precaution, use gloves, towels or blankets to handle your injured pet.
• Do not panic - remain calm. Animals can easily sense fear in their owners.
• If there is a chance of back or neck injury, carefully place the pet on a stable flat surface, such as a wooden board, and minimize movement during transportation.
• Never administer medication to your pet until you have consulted a veterinarian. Many drugs, such as Tylenol® and ibuprofen are very toxic to your pet.
• Apply direct pressure to any area with active bleeding.
• In case of possible poisoning, seek immediate treatment and bring any product packaging with you to the veterinarian. Do not try to induce vomiting without medical advice.
• Call the Pet Emergency Center for information and instructions. (360) 848-5911

For your pet's safety, please post our number for future reference. In some emergency situations, minutes may count. Our experienced staff is happy to assist you.

If your pet exhibits any abnormal activity or behaviour call the Pet Emergency Center immediately. The following symptoms are definitely emergencies and require immediate medical attention.

Emergency Symptoms

• Difficulty breathing, blue tongue or raspy breath sounds.
• Swollen or distended abdomen, with or without productive vomiting.
• Inability to urinate or defaecate, especially if straining. (Cats may repeatedly go to the litter box, lick at the genital area, and/or vocalise.)



• Ingestion of toxin, including but not limited to: chocolate, rodenticides (mouse and rat bait), garden pest control products (snail baits), prescription, over the counter or illegal drugs, and household cleaners. BRING THE CONTAINER WITH YOU!
• Traumas such as being hit by a car, a fall from a height or blunt force, even if the animal is NOT showing any ill effects!
• Collapse/inability to stand or walk.
• Loss of balance or consciousness, convulsions or seizure activity.
• Penetrating wound, such as bite wounds (dog or cat), gunshot or stab wounds.
• Bleeding that does not stop. (Apply pressure with a clean cloth while on your way).
• Vomiting or diarrhea with blood.
• Heatstroke: heavy panting, weakness on a warm day.
• Exposure to snakes or ticks.