Do you live in the Asheville, North Carolina area? Are you a pet owner? If you have a pet in or around Asheville, it’s important to brush up on some of the most common risks and potential emergencies that can occur in this area.

In the article below, we’ll run through a quick list of some of the most common pet emergencies in the Asheville area. With the help of this information, you can better prepare yourself and your pet for potential risks, and you can respond appropriately if your pet ever encounters an emergency, too.

Pets in the Asheville area may be at risk of heatstroke during the hotter parts of the year. Many pets who play too hard outside without taking enough breaks in the shade suffer from mild to moderate heatstroke, and some may experience severe symptoms. Any pet who is left alone in a vehicle, even on a mild day, is at risk for severe heatstroke as well.

If your pet is panting or drooling excessively after spending time in the heat, this is a sign of early heatstroke. Rapid heart rate, loss of consciousness, and seizures are signs of moderate to severe heatstroke and should be treated as an emergency no matter what.

Since Asheville is a larger city in North Carolina, it is sadly common for pets to be at risk of injury from vehicle accidents here. Pets who escape their homes or yards, and pets who are allowed to roam freely, may suffer from vehicle injuries.

If your pet is injured by a vehicle, go to the emergency vet right away, even if the pet does not show any significant symptoms. Many pets hide their pain well, and you may not know how serious the problem is until it is too late.

Asheville is home to many types of insects and snakes , some of which can be more dangerous than others. If your pet is bitten or stung by a snake or insect that you know or suspect is venomous, go to the emergency vet right away.

Additionally, if your pet is bitten or stung by anything and experiences swelling of the face or snout, go to the emergency vet. This is a sign of anaphylactic shock and should be treated as a serious emergency.

Your pet may be at risk of exposure to a variety of toxic substances in and around the Asheville area. Some of these are more common in the city, such as antifreeze or household cleaners. Others, however, may be present in the outdoors and include a variety of toxic plants that grow in the area.

If your pet ingests something you know or suspect is toxic, go to the emergency vet as soon as possible. The quicker your respond to this type of situation, the more likely it will be that the vet can help your pet recover fully.

Although frostbite is not nearly as common in Asheville as it is in some other locations, it is still a potential risk that you should keep in mind if you have a pet in this area. Pets who spend time outside when the temperature drops below freezing may be at a higher risk of suffering mild to severe frostbite, depending on the situation.

If your pet takes walks outside in the freezing rain or snow, she may be at risk of frostbite on her paw pads and any other exposed skin areas of her body. Dry your pet’s feet and keep walks short when the weather turns cold.

In the Asheville area, there are a lot of pets as well as stray and wild animals. Your pet could be at risk of being attacked, scratched, or bitten by any of these animals, especially if you allow your pet to roam freely at any point.

Additionally, if you go camping, hiking , or exploring nature in any way with your pet, she may be at risk of being bitten or scratched by a wild animal. If any animal injures your pet, go to the emergency vet right away for treatment—even if the injury does not seem severe.

Call 24/7 Local Veterinarian for all and any Common Pet Emergencies in Asheville, NC

Based on this information, it’s easy to see just how many potential emergencies can occur in the Asheville area. By taking the time to prepare yourself, your household, and your pet for these hazards, you can ensure a safer and healthier experience for you and your pet.

Of course, it is not always possible to prevent every pet emergency. For this reason, you should spend some time locating a quality emergency vet in your area before an emergency situation occurs. This way, you will not have to scramble to find this information in the middle of a crisis.

 24/7 Local Veterinarian has opened a new location in Asheville, with a team of compassionate emergency vets and staff who will be here for you and your pet in any emergency. When you call our emergency animal hospital, you’ll always speak directly with an experienced emergency vet who will be able to guide the next steps to help your pet. With many locations around the country, and growing, we’re honored and look forward to being your partner in your pet’s care.