If your dog is seriously ill or injured, call your nearest emergency veterinary clinic now. Phone ahead if you can — the clinic can prepare for your arrival and tell you exactly what to do on the way. This page helps you act fast and find care across Canada.
Is this an emergency?
Seek urgent veterinary care immediately if your dog has any of these signs:
- Difficulty breathing, choking, or collapse
- Suspected poisoning (chocolate, xylitol, grapes/raisins, rodenticide, medications, antifreeze)
- Severe bleeding, a major wound, or a broken bone
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhea, or a swollen, hard belly (possible bloat — a life-threatening emergency)
- Seizures, staggering, or sudden disorientation
- Straining and unable to urinate
- Trauma — hit by a car, a fall, or a serious fight
- Heatstroke — heavy panting, drooling, weakness in the heat
- Pale or blue gums, or a distended abdomen
When in doubt, call. Emergency clinics would always rather hear from you early.
What to do right now
- Stay calm. Your dog reads your stress. Move slowly and speak gently.
- Call ahead. Phone the clinic before you leave so they’re ready and can guide you.
- Handle with care. Even a gentle dog may bite when in pain. Support the body, avoid the injured area, and use a blanket or board as a stretcher for a large or immobile dog.
- Don’t give human medication or food remedies unless a veterinarian tells you to — many are toxic to dogs, and inducing vomiting can do more harm than good.
- Bring what you can. Any packaging or a photo of what your dog ate, a list of current medications, and your dog’s records if handy.
Find an open emergency vet near you
Emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Many Canadian cities have 24-hour or after-hours emergency animal hospitals, and many regular clinics list an emergency line or a referral clinic on their voicemail.
- Search Canada Dog Care for emergency and veterinary clinics in your area — search your city or town along with “emergency vet” or “veterinary hospital.”
- Call ahead to confirm they’re open and can see your dog — hours change, especially overnight and on holidays.
- Save a clinic now, before you need one. Keep the number of your nearest 24-hour emergency hospital in your phone.
Search for veterinary care near you →
Suspected poisoning
If you think your dog has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic immediately. A poison-control service for animals, such as the Pet Poison Helpline (which serves Canada; a consultation fee applies), can also advise around the clock. Have the product and packaging on hand so you can describe what and how much your dog ingested.
Be ready before an emergency
- Know where your nearest 24-hour emergency clinic is, and keep its number saved.
- Keep a small pet first-aid kit and your dog’s medical records accessible.
- Emergency care can be costly — many owners find that pet insurance or a dedicated savings buffer takes the financial pressure out of a crisis, so you can say yes to care without hesitation.
Important
This page is general information only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed veterinarian about your dog’s health, and in an emergency contact an emergency veterinary service without delay.
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