What to Do If Your Pet Is Sick 🧡 🐾

What to do when you notice your pet is unwell

Seeing a pet sick is stressful. The key is to stay calm, assess the situation, and take safe, practical steps to help until you can see a veterinarian.

Common signs that a pet needs attention

• Loss of appetite or refusing to drink
• Lethargy, hiding, or sudden behavior changes
• Vomiting, diarrhea, trouble breathing, seizures
• Coughing, nasal or eye discharge, limping
• Changes in urination or unusual vocalization

If your pet shows severe signs (difficulty breathing, seizures, heavy bleeding, collapse), seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

Immediate steps at home — safety and comfort

• Approach gently and speak in a calm voice. Stress can make symptoms worse.
• If you suspect an infectious disease, separate the sick animal from others.
• Offer small amounts of fresh water; don’t force-feed.
• Create a quiet, warm resting spot with a soft blanket.
• Avoid giving human medications or any veterinary drugs without professional guidance.

What to note before the vet visit

• When symptoms started and how they progressed
• Changes in eating, drinking, elimination, and behavior
• Recent contacts with other animals, travel, new foods or chemicals
• Current medications or supplements
• Vaccination status if known

This information helps the vet form a quicker, more accurate picture.

Preparing for transport and the clinic visit

• Use a carrier or secure area in the car to keep your pet safe during transport.
• Bring a sample of vomit or feces if relevant, a sample of the pet’s food, and your notes on symptoms.
• Be ready to describe the home environment and any recent exposures.

Working with your veterinarian

• Describe signs clearly, in order, and include any recent changes.
• Ask about recommended tests and what they will show (bloodwork, imaging, etc.).
• Clarify treatment steps, possible side effects, and when to call if things change.

Aftercare: monitoring and safety

• Follow dosing instructions exactly. If you’re unsure, call the clinic before changing anything.
• Monitor appetite, water intake, elimination, and behavior; take notes on improvement or decline.
• For contagious illnesses, keep strict hygiene: wash hands, disinfect surfaces, and limit contact with other animals.

When to return or seek emergency help

• Worsening condition or no improvement within the time frame discussed with the vet
• New severe symptoms appear: persistent vomiting/diarrhea, breathing issues, seizures

Prevention and community support

• Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite control reduce many risks.
• Reach out to local shelters or volunteer networks when you need help with transport, temporary care, or advice.
• Caring for a sick pet often requires a team approach — don’t hesitate to ask for support.

With calm, timely action and the right veterinary care, most pets can recover. TailsPal supports pet owners and communities in Georgia with practical advice and volunteer help.