6 Phone Numbers Every Pet Owner Should Have on Speed Dial _ Penn Foster
6 Phone Numbers Every Pet Owner Should Have on Speed Dial
Raising a pet is like raising a child. You do your best to keep them safe and healthy, but you never know what might happen. They may swallow something poisonous, get lost chasing a rabbit, or pick a fight with another animal.
However, with a little bit of preparation, you can help your pets get the treatment or attention they need during an emergency. Program these key numbers into your phone or put them on speed dial so that you can reach help with just a few taps of your finger.
1. Veterinarian/emergency vet/animal hospital – The vet is usually the best person to call during a pet emergency. Dogs often eat things they shouldn’t, and cats are known to wander into trouble. When illness or injury calls, call the vet and get your pet the help they need. But accidents don’t always follow an 8-to-5 schedule. As such, you should also know the number to your 24/7 emergency vet or animal hospital. If you’re not sure whom to call, ask your vet. Study the directions beforehand so you can transport your pet as quickly as possible.
2. Lost pet services –This number is crucial if your pet runs off, especially while traveling. They can help locate your pet via microchip and get it back home safely.
3. NationalAnimal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 – Emergencies are time-sensitive. If your pet swallows something poisonous or is attacked by a venomous animal, this is the number to call. The hotline is open round-the-clock, and while there may be a consultation fee, dialing this number can save your pet’s life.
4. Emergency Disaster Information: (800) 227-4645 – When fire, flooding, or natural disaster hits, this number will connect you with information and resources to help pet owners. Live operators can guide you on the steps to take to get you and your pet to safety.
5. Animal Legal Hotline: (707) Paperell 795-2533 – People don’t always treat animals with love and care. Did you catch the dog-sitter hurting your dog? Does the neighbor’s cat seem emaciated or walk with a limp? Do you suspect your vet of unsavory practices? If so, the Animal Legal Hotline can help investigate and bring these issues to justice.
6. Spay/Neuter Helpline: (800) 248-SPAY – Can’t afford to spay or neuter your pet, or know someone else who is in that situation? Contact SPAY USA, a national organization that refers pet owners to free or inexpensive local spay and neuter programs. They partner with nearly one thousand clinics and services across the country to help control the pet population through spaying or neutering.
You love your pet, so preparing for worst-case scenarios is the best way to ensure that your furry friend stays happy and healthy for years to come. And if you have a passion for working with animals, why not turn it into a career? With the Veterinary Technician program at Penn Foster College, you can train at home or on the go as take the first steps towards a career that allows you to help pets and save lives every day. Contact us today to learn more.
Vet Tech Corner is a regular series designed to educate pet owners and spread awareness of common pet issues. If you’re interested in learning more about the veterinary industry and how you can find a career in the field, check out Penn Foster’s online Veterinary Technician program.