Not every limp or upset stomach means an emergency, but some do — and in those cases, minutes matter more than you'd think. Here's how to tell which is which.
Go now, don't wait
Difficulty breathing, choking, or blue/pale gums
Collapse, seizure, or unresponsiveness
Suspected poisoning (rat bait, chocolate, human medication)
A hard, bloated abdomen with unproductive retching — especially in deep-chested dogs
Heavy bleeding, or any injury from a road accident
Straining to urinate with no output, especially in male cats
