Urgent Pet Care in Omaha, NE

Pet Emergencies During Business Hours

After-Hours Emergency Care

VCA Midwest Veterinary Referral & Emergency Center
9706 Mockingbird Drive
Omaha, NE 68127
402-614-9000
Open 24/7!

Urgent Pet Care West
4257 S 144^th Street
Omaha, NE 68137
402-991-9444

Urgent Pet Care Papillion
8455 S 73rd Plaza
Papillion, NE
402-512-5561

Poison Control

If you think your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, please call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC)* at 888-426-4435 right away. The APCC is your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency and are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

You may also contact the Pet Poison Helpline* at 855-764-7661.

*A consultation fee may apply.

What is Considered a Pet Emergency?

Pet emergencies can range from acute injuries to sudden illnesses, and recognizing the signs early is crucial. Here are some scenarios that are considered pet emergencies and warrant immediate attention:

Traumatic Injuries

• Hit by a car or other vehicle
• Falls from a significant height
• Animal bites or injuries from fights

Breathing Difficulties

• Persistent coughing or choking
• Labored breathing or gasping for air
• Blue-tinged gums or tongue

Digestive Issues

• Uncontrollable vomiting or diarrhea
• Suspected ingestion of toxic substances or foreign objects
• Bloat, especially in large breed dogs

Neurological Problems

• Seizures or convulsions
• Sudden loss of consciousness
• Incoordination or difficulty walking

Other Signs of Distress

• Excessive bleeding
• High fever or hypothermia
• Extreme pain or vocalization

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's critical to seek veterinary care immediately. Do not wait to see if the symptoms will pass on their own, as delays can worsen the situation.

What to Do in Case of a Pet Emergency

In an emergency situation, staying calm and acting swiftly is vital. Here are steps to follow if your pet is in distress:

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation - Before you leap into action, take a deep breath and quickly assess the severity of the situation. Your composure will help keep your pet calm, too.
2. Contact Your Veterinarian or Emergency Clinic - If it's during regular business hours, please contact us immediately. If it's after hours, call one of the after-hours emergency care providers listed above.
3. Provide First Aid if Necessary - While waiting for professional help or en route to the veterinarian, provide any first aid that you can safely administer. Do not attempt any procedures you're not familiar with, as you could unintentionally cause further harm to your pet.
4. Transport Your Pet Safely - When moving your pet, be gentle to avoid causing more pain or injury. Use a pet carrier or makeshift stretcher if necessary. Small pets can be wrapped in a blanket or towel to keep them warm and secure.

Essential Items for Your Pet's First Aid Kit

Just as you'd keep a first aid kit for yourself and family, it's just as important to have one for your pet. Below are the essential items to include:

Contact Information

• Prairie Lane Veterinary Hospital’s phone number: 402-333-3847
• Local emergency pet hospital contact details
• Poison control center contact information: 888-426-4435

General Supplies

• Gauze pads and rolls
• Adhesive tape
• Cotton balls or swabs
• Disposable gloves

Wound Care

• Antiseptic wipes or solution
• Antibiotic ointment
• Sterile saline solution for eye flushing or wound cleaning
• Tweezers for removing splinters or ticks

Medications

• Hydrogen peroxide (to induce vomiting if directed by your veterinarian)
• Styptic powder or pencil (to stop bleeding from minor cuts or nail trims)
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), if approved by your vet for allergic reactions

Tools and Equipment

• Scissors with a blunt end
• Digital thermometer for pets
• Syringes or droppers for administeringmedication or flushing wounds
• Flashlight to check your pet's mouth or throat

Comfort Items

• Blankets or towels
• A leash and collar or harness
• A muzzle (even the gentlest pet can bite when in pain)

With these items on hand, you'll be prepared to administer basic care and stabilize your pet until you can get to a veterinarian.

Using CareCredit for Emergency Pet Care

Emergency pet care costs can be daunting, especially when they arise unexpectedly. That's where CareCredit steps in. At Prairie Lane Veterinary Hospital, we welcome CareCredit, a healthcare credit card designed to assist with emergency pet care expenses. With special financing options and manageable monthly payments, CareCredit® helps alleviate the financial burden of your pet's emergency care.

Using Scratchpay for Emergency Pet Care

We're excited to announce that we also accept Scratchpay for emergency vet services. Scratchpay offers simple, transparent financing options specifically tailored for veterinary care. With Scratchpay, you can get your pet the emergency treatment they need without worrying about immediate payment. Apply quickly and easily online, and focus on your pet's health while Scratchpay takes care of the rest.