Every responsible pet parent hopes they’ll never need to act fast in a medical emergency—but accidents happen, and knowing what to do before getting to the vet can make all the difference. Whether you're at home in Richmond or out for a walk in nearby neighborhoods like Aliana, Sugar Land, or Mission Bend, being prepared can help save your pet’s life and reduce complications.

At Embrace Veterinary Care, we want to empower local families with essential first aid knowledge. Here's a helpful guide to get you started.

Know the Signs of an Emergency

Not all emergencies look dramatic. Sometimes it’s easy to overlook subtle signs until things become critical. Call your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing, choking, or persistent coughing
• Uncontrolled bleeding or bleeding from any orifice
• Seizures or sudden disorientation
• Limping or inability to move a limb
• Swollen, hard abdomen or signs of pain
• Repeated vomiting or diarrhea
• Ingestion of a known toxin or foreign object

If you’re unsure whether something is an emergency, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call Embrace Veterinary Care. Quick action can lead to better outcomes.

Build a Pet First Aid Kit

Having a well-stocked first aid kit is one of the most important things you can do to stay ready for emergencies. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) provides a comprehensive checklist to help you put together a kit that’s appropriate for your dog or cat. You can view their printable list here.

Your kit should include:

• Gauze and non-stick bandages
• Digital thermometer
• Hydrogen peroxide (for inducing vomiting—only under vet guidance)
• Saline solution
• Tweezers and scissors
• Medications prescribed by your vet
• Emergency contact numbers

Keep one kit at home and another in your car if you travel often with your pet.

Download a Pet First Aid App

Technology can be a lifesaver—literally. The American Red Cross offers a Pet First Aid App filled with expert veterinary advice, instructional videos, and step-by-step guidance for everyday emergencies. It’s free to download and is a must-have for all pet owners. Learn more about the app here.

Know What’s Toxic

Poisoning is a common pet emergency, and many toxic items are found in everyday homes—especially around spring and summer. Be cautious with:

• Human medications (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Chocolate, grapes, and xylitol (found in sugar-free gum)
• Cleaning products and garden chemicals
• Plants like lilies, sago palm, and azaleas

If your pet ingests something potentially harmful, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 or review their helpful resources here.

Prepare for Travel and Natural Disasters

Whether you’re heading to Sugar Land for the weekend or bracing for a Gulf Coast storm, having a pet-specific emergency plan is critical. Always travel with:

• Your pet’s medical records and medications
• Extra food and bottled water
• A leash, crate, and ID tags
• Printed maps with emergency vet locations in case cell service goes down

Include your pets in any emergency evacuation plan. Preparation will reduce panic and improve their safety.

You know your pet better than anyone else. If something feels off—whether it’s unusual behavior or subtle symptoms—trust your gut and contact us. We’re here for pet parents across Richmond, Aliana, Four Corners, and beyond.

We encourage you to keep our contact information saved and visible, and to speak with our team about what other tools and resources can help you prepare for emergencies.