Medically Reviewed by Dr. Lonny Pace, DVM, DACVECC
If you suspect your dog or cat has just been bitten by a rattlesnake, please remain as calm as possible. Rattlesnake envenomation is a time-sensitive medical emergency, but with immediate veterinary intervention, the vast majority of pets fully recover. This guide places the most critical, life-saving steps at the very top so you can act fast, followed by essential information on symptoms and advanced veterinary care.
If you witness or highly suspect a bite, focus entirely on these steps:
In a snakebite crisis, doing the wrong thing can be just as dangerous as doing nothing at all. Avoid these common medical myths:
Because dogs and cats often explore brush out of direct eyesight, you may not see the snake strike. Because dogs naturally investigate new smells, rattlesnakes most frequently strike them on the face, muzzle, or front legs. Cats, driven by their predatory instinct to swat at movement, usually sustain bites to their paws or lower limbs.
Look out for these two phases of symptoms:
As venom leaves the bite site and enters general blood circulation, it triggers severe, body-wide complications:
Rattlesnakes belong to the Crotalinae subfamily, commonly known as “pit vipers.” They are equipped with triangular heads, heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils, and a single pair of long, hollow, hinged fangs designed to strike, inject venom, and withdraw.
When a rattlesnake strikes, it injects a complex mixture of water, proteins, and peptides. This venom features a lethal combination of cytotoxins, hemotoxins, and occasionally neurotoxins:
Debunking the “Young Snake” Myth – The rumor that young rattlesnakes are more dangerous because they cannot control their venom delivery is a myth. While the volume of venom injected is certainly important, the chemical content is equally critical; even small snakes are highly capable of inflicting severe, toxic bites. Ultimately, a pet’s prognosis depends on the amount and potency of the venom, the location of the bite, and how quickly medical care is sought—not the maturity of the snake.
You do not need to identify the snake to get treatment, but recognizing local species helps you stay aware on the trails:
When you arrive at an emergency facility, the medical team performs a rapid triage. Our team uses targeted diagnostics to rule out other causes of sudden swelling, like insect stings, abscesses, or fractures:
Our Intensive Care Unit (ICU) initiates an aggressive, multi-faceted treatment protocol the moment your pet arrives:
Because high-quality antivenoms are derived from donor animal proteins, there is an inherent risk of an allergic or anaphylactic reaction during administration. Emergency teams monitor patients around the clock for sudden changes in blood pressure, heart rate, hives, or vomiting. If a reaction occurs, our team pauses the infusion, administers medications, and safely restarts the treatment at a slower rate.
Several critical factors determine your pet’s ultimate recovery, including the time elapsed from the bite to antivenom initiation, the location of the bite, the amount of venom injected, and the pet’s size.
The encouraging news is that with prompt veterinary treatment, the vast majority of dogs and cats make a complete recovery. Statistically, mortality rates range from 1.8% to 24% in dogs and 6% to 18% in cats. Pets that do not survive typically suffer from severe envenomation’s directly to highly vulnerable vascular areas like the tongue, chest, or central trunk. During recovery, strict rest is critical to prevent re-envenomation. This happens when the body absorbs leftover venom from the bite site back into circulation as the pet moves, potentially triggering delayed swelling or clotting issues. Continuous monitoring using tools like VCM helps track this safely.
Prevention remains your best line of defense when enjoying the outdoors:
When a pet emergency strikes, local experience matters. Because of our location in the heart of the Temecula Valley and our advanced 24/7 critical care capabilities, EPIC Vets diagnoses and treats the highest volume of rattlesnake envenomation cases in the surrounding region. Our emergency and ICU teams see these cases daily throughout the warmer seasons, giving us unmatched local expertise in managing snakebites and their complications.
Our advanced facility is fully equipped to manage complex venomous snake bites. From our specialized diagnostic technologies—including on-site viscoelastic coagulation monitoring (VCM)—to our fully stocked pharmacy of advanced, USDA-licensed antivenom therapies, we provide around-the-clock ICU monitoring and expert care when your pet needs it most. Our compassionate emergency veterinary team is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
If your pet has been bitten or you are experiencing a pet emergency, please call us or come directly to our hospital immediately
Foxtails in dogs can turn a normal summer walk into an emergency. These dry, barbed grass seeds are common in California and can easily attach to a dog’s coat, paws, ears, nose, eyes, or skin during outdoor activity.
Foxtails are especially concerning during dry summer months because they harden and become easier for pets to pick up while walking through tall grass, brush, fields, trails, or dry open areas. Once a foxtail becomes embedded, it will not dissolve or safely break down on its own. UC Davis notes that the only treatment for foxtails is removal, and early diagnosis and removal are ideal.
At EPIC Vets, our emergency veterinary team provides 24/7 emergency care for dogs and cats throughout Temecula and surrounding Southern California communities. If your dog may have a foxtail in their paw, ear, nose, eye, or skin, prompt veterinary care can help prevent pain, infection, and more serious complications.
Foxtails are seed awns from certain grasses and weeds. They may look small, but their shape makes them dangerous for pets. Foxtails have tiny barbs that allow them to move forward through fur, skin, and tissue.
This means a foxtail can start on the surface of your dog’s coat and then become lodged between the toes, inside an ear canal, up the nose, near the eye, or under the skin. UC Davis explains that foxtails can migrate into tissue and cause abscesses and widespread infections.
Because foxtails are designed to move in one direction, they can become harder to remove the longer they stay embedded.
Foxtails in dogs are dangerous because they can burrow into the body and cause irritation, infection, pain, swelling, and internal damage. They most often affect areas where seeds can easily catch or enter, such as the paws, ears, nose, eyes, mouth, chest, and belly.
Foxtails can be especially painful when they lodge between the toes or inside the ear canal. If inhaled through the nose, they may cause sudden sneezing, nasal irritation, bleeding, or breathing concerns. If they enter the skin, they can create a draining wound or abscess.
VCA notes that grass awns, also known as foxtails, can penetrate the skin and slowly work deeper into tissue, often ending up between a dog’s toes and moving into the paw.
The signs of foxtails in dogs can vary depending on where the foxtail is located. Symptoms may appear suddenly after a walk, or they may develop over time as the foxtail moves deeper.
Common signs may include:
If your dog shows any of these signs after walking through dry grass, brush, trails, or open fields, a foxtail may be the cause.
Foxtails can attach almost anywhere, but some areas are more common than others.
Between the toes is one of the most common places foxtails are found. They can work into the paw and cause swelling, licking, limping, or infection.
Foxtails can also enter the ears, where they may cause head shaking, scratching, pain, or discharge. In the nose, they can cause sudden, repeated sneezing, pawing at the face, or bloody discharge. Near the eyes, they may cause squinting, tearing, redness, or irritation.
They can also become trapped in long fur, under the collar, around the armpits, groin, belly, chest, or tail. Dogs with thick coats, long hair, or feathering around the feet may be more likely to pick up foxtails during walks.
If you see a foxtail sitting loosely on your dog’s coat, remove it right away before it has a chance to burrow into the skin. After walks, check your dog’s paws, ears, face, belly, armpits, and tail area carefully.
If the foxtail is easy to access and not embedded, UC Davis says it may be removed with tweezers, but it is important to remove the whole seed head because remnants can still migrate through the body. If you think any seed pieces remain, contact your veterinarian.
If a foxtail is stuck in the skin, causing redness or swelling, inside the ear or nose, near the eye, or causing pain for your dog, do not try to remove it at home. Call your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital for guidance.
Do not ignore signs of irritation after a walk. Foxtails rarely become safer with time, and waiting can allow the seed to move deeper into the body.
Do not dig into your dog’s paw, ear, nose, or skin with tweezers if the foxtail is embedded or not fully visible. This can cause the seed to break, push deeper, or make the injury worse.
Do not flush your dog’s nose or ear at home unless a veterinarian specifically tells you to. Do not apply ointments, oils, or home remedies to a suspected foxtail wound without veterinary guidance.
If your dog is acting pained, limping, sneezing repeatedly, shaking their head, squinting, bleeding, or showing swelling, it is safest to have them evaluated by a veterinarian.
Foxtails in dogs may require urgent or emergency veterinary care when they are embedded, causing significant pain, or affecting sensitive areas like the ear, nose, eye, mouth, or airway.
You should seek emergency care if your dog is repeatedly sneezing, has bloody nasal discharge, is pawing at the face, is shaking their head nonstop, has severe ear pain, is squinting, has a swollen or draining paw, cannot walk normally, is coughing or gagging, or seems lethargic after possible foxtail exposure.
You should also seek urgent care if you can see a wound or swelling but cannot find the foxtail. The seed may already be under the skin.
Treatment depends on where the foxtail is located and how deeply it is embedded. The goal is to find and remove the entire foxtail before it causes more damage.
If the foxtail is visible and easy to access, removal may be simple. If it is in the ear, nose, eye, paw, or under the skin, your dog may need sedation, pain control, wound care, imaging, or a more involved procedure to safely locate and remove it. In more complicated cases, surgery may be needed.
After removal, your veterinarian may also treat pain, inflammation, or infection. Some dogs recover quickly once the foxtail is removed, while others may need follow up care if the tissue is irritated or infected.
The best way to protect your dog is to avoid areas with dry foxtail grasses when possible, especially during the summer. Stay on cleared paths, avoid tall grass and brush, and check your dog thoroughly after walks.
After outdoor activity, look between each toe, under the paw pads, around the ears, near the eyes, around the nose and mouth, under the collar, and through the coat. If your dog has long hair around the paws or ears, regular grooming may help reduce places where foxtails can hide.
Keeping your yard trimmed and removing dry weeds can also help reduce exposure at home. VCA recommends mowing regularly and avoiding tall grasses on walks to help keep grass awns off your dog.
Foxtails are especially important for Temecula pet owners to watch for during dry summer months. Dogs may pick them up while walking near trails, open lots, fields, parks, dry brush, or even areas around the yard.
Before heading out, choose routes with less dry grass and avoid letting your dog run through brush or overgrown areas. After the walk, do a quick nose to tail check before your dog has time to lick, chew, or rub irritated areas.
If your dog suddenly starts limping, sneezing, shaking their head, or licking their paws after a walk, do not assume it will resolve on its own. A foxtail may be embedded and may need veterinary removal.
Foxtails in dogs can become painful and dangerous when they lodge in the paws, ears, nose, eyes, skin, or other areas of the body. Because foxtails can migrate deeper into tissue, early veterinary care is the safest approach.
At EPIC Vets, our emergency veterinary team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to help pets facing urgent injuries, infections, and summer emergencies in Temecula and surrounding Southern California communities.
If you think your dog may have a foxtail, call EPIC Vets at 951-695-5044 or come directly to our emergency hospital for urgent care.
Dog burned paws are a common summer concern, especially in Temecula and other inland Southern California communities where pavement, sidewalks, and asphalt can become dangerously hot. Even when the air temperature feels manageable, ground surfaces can heat up quickly and cause painful injuries to a dog’s paw pads.
During warm weather, pavement can become much hotter than the temperature shown on your weather app. AAHA notes that surface temperatures can be 40 to 60 degrees hotter than the air temperature, and asphalt can reach 135 degrees on an 86 degree day, which can burn a pet’s paws in 60 seconds.
Paw pad burns can be painful and may make it difficult for your dog to walk. In more severe cases, burns can expose deeper tissue, increase the risk of infection, and require veterinary care.
At EPIC Vets, our emergency veterinary team provides 24/7 care for dogs and cats throughout Temecula and surrounding Southern California communities. If your dog’s paws are burned, bleeding, blistered, or causing significant pain, emergency care may be needed.
Dogs rely on their paw pads for protection, traction, and shock absorption, but those pads can still be injured by extreme heat. Asphalt, concrete, sand, metal, artificial turf, and other outdoor surfaces can become hot enough to cause discomfort, blistering, and burns.
This is especially important during Temecula summers, when high temperatures and direct sunlight can make pavement unsafe for walks. Dogs may not show pain immediately, and some will continue walking even while their paws are becoming irritated or injured.
The AKC advises that if the temperature is 85 degrees or higher and the pavement has not had time to cool, the ground may be too hot for safe walking.
The signs of dog burned paws may appear during a walk, shortly after coming inside, or later in the day. Some signs are obvious, while others may be easy to miss at first.
Common signs of burned paw pads include:
If your dog is limping, licking their paws, or acting painful after walking on hot pavement, check their paw pads carefully. Even if the burns do not look severe at first, paw injuries can worsen when a dog continues walking on them.
Yes. Dogs can burn their paws on pavement, especially during summer afternoons or after surfaces have been sitting in direct sunlight.
Paw pad burns are not limited to asphalt. Concrete sidewalks, patios, pool decks, sand, metal surfaces, truck beds, and artificial turf can also become hot enough to injure your dog’s feet.
A quick way to check the surface is to place the back of your hand on the pavement for several seconds. If it feels too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog’s paws. AAHA recommends testing the ground for seven seconds before heading out for a walk.
During the summer, avoid walking your dog during the hottest parts of the day. In Temecula, pavement can stay hot well into the evening, especially after several hours of direct sun.
Early morning is usually the safest time for summer walks because the pavement has had more time to cool overnight. Evening walks can be safer than afternoon walks, but it is still important to test the ground before letting your dog walk on pavement.
You should be extra cautious with puppies, senior dogs, small dogs, short-legged breeds, flat-faced breeds, overweight dogs, and dogs with medical conditions. These pets may be more vulnerable to heat-related stress and may have a harder time recovering once they become overheated or injured.
If you think your dog has burned their paws, move them off the hot surface immediately and bring them into a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned area. Try to keep your dog calm and limit walking as much as possible.
Gently check each paw pad for redness, swelling, blisters, peeling, bleeding, or exposed tissue. If your dog allows it, rinse the paws with cool or room temperature water. Do not use ice, extremely cold water, or harsh products on the paw pads. AAHA recommends moving pets to a cooler area, rinsing with cool water, avoiding ice, and contacting a veterinarian for severe burns.
After cooling the paws, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital for guidance. Paw pad injuries can be painful, slow to heal, and prone to infection if deeper tissue is damaged.
Do not force your dog to continue walking if you suspect paw pad burns. Continued pressure can worsen the injury and delay healing.
Avoid applying human ointments, creams, butter, oils, or home remedies unless a veterinarian specifically recommends them. Dogs often lick their paws, which means anything placed on the paw pads may be ingested.
Do not pop blisters, peel loose skin, or wrap the paw tightly at home. A bandage that is too tight can cause swelling or restrict circulation. If the paw needs to be bandaged, your veterinary team can do this safely and provide instructions for follow up care.
Dog burned paws may require emergency veterinary care if your dog is in significant pain, cannot walk normally, has visible blisters, has bleeding paw pads, has raw or exposed tissue, or continues licking and chewing at the injury.
You should also seek urgent care if your dog shows signs of heatstroke along with paw burns. Warning signs may include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, weakness, collapse, disorientation, bright red or pale gums, or seizures. Hot pavement can contribute to overheating, especially when dogs are walking during peak summer heat. The AKC notes that hot pavement can increase a dog’s body temperature and contribute to heatstroke.
VCA notes that dogs can burn their foot pads on scorching summer sidewalks and that severe burns should be treated by a veterinarian.
If you are unsure how serious the injury is, it is safest to call an emergency veterinarian.
Treatment depends on the severity of the burn and the condition of your dog’s paw pads. Minor irritation may require cleaning, pain control, paw protection, and restricted activity while the tissue heals. More serious burns may need wound care, bandaging, antibiotics if infection is a concern, pain management, and follow up evaluations.
Paw pad injuries can be difficult because dogs put pressure on their feet every time they walk. Even a small burn can become more painful or heal more slowly if your dog continues walking on rough or hot surfaces.
Your veterinary team may also check for signs of dehydration, heat stress, or other injuries if the paw burns happened during a hot walk.
Preventing dog burned paws starts with changing walk routines during hot weather. Walk early in the morning when pavement is cooler, choose shaded routes, and use grass or dirt paths when possible.
Before every summer walk, test the ground with your hand. If the surface is uncomfortable for you, it is not safe for your dog. Avoid asphalt, concrete, sand, artificial turf, metal surfaces, and other heat absorbing materials during peak sun.
Dog booties can help protect paws, but dogs need time to adjust to wearing them. Make sure booties fit properly and do not cause rubbing. Paw wax may provide a little added protection, but it should not be used as a substitute for avoiding dangerously hot surfaces.
You can also protect your dog by keeping walks short, bringing water, taking breaks, and watching closely for signs of overheating or paw discomfort.
Temecula’s summer heat can make pavement dangerous for dogs, especially during afternoon and early evening hours. Even quick walks across parking lots, sidewalks, patios, or asphalt can cause discomfort or injury when surfaces are hot enough.
Before heading outside, check the pavement, plan a cooler route, and keep your dog off hot surfaces whenever possible. If you are visiting a park, winery, outdoor shopping area, or local event, remember that your dog may be walking barefoot across surfaces that are much hotter than the surrounding air.
Dog burned paws can be painful and may require veterinary care, especially if the paw pads are blistered, bleeding, peeling, or making it hard for your dog to walk.
At EPIC Vets, our emergency veterinary team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to help pets facing urgent injuries and heat related emergencies in Temecula and surrounding Southern California communities.
If your dog burned their paws on hot pavement, call EPIC Vets at 951-695-5044 or come directly to our emergency hospital for urgent care.
Dog poisoning can happen quickly, especially when a curious pet gets into food, medication, plants, chemicals, or household products that are unsafe for them. Many common items found in kitchens, purses, garages, bathrooms, and backyards can cause serious illness or become life threatening if ingested.
Some toxins cause vomiting or stomach upset. Others can lead to seizures, breathing problems, internal bleeding, liver damage, kidney failure, collapse, or death. In some cases, symptoms may not appear right away, even though the toxin is already affecting your dog internally.
If you think your dog may have eaten something toxic, contact a veterinarian or animal poison control right away. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center recommends noting the amount ingested and contacting your veterinarian or poison control if your pet eats a potentially harmful food or substance.
At EPIC Vets, our emergency veterinary team provides 24/7 emergency care for dogs and cats throughout Temecula and surrounding Southern California communities. Fast action can make a major difference after possible toxic ingestion.
Dog poisoning occurs when a dog eats, drinks, inhales, or comes into contact with a substance that is harmful to their body. The effects depend on the toxin, the amount ingested, your dog’s size, your dog’s health, and how quickly treatment begins.
Some toxins affect the gastrointestinal system and cause vomiting or diarrhea. Others impact the nervous system, heart, blood, liver, or kidneys. Certain toxins can cause severe complications within minutes, while others may take hours or days to cause visible symptoms.
Because dog poisoning is not always obvious right away, it is important to take any possible exposure seriously.
Many dog poisoning emergencies involve everyday items that pet owners may not realize are dangerous. While this is not a complete list, these are some of the toxic exposures emergency veterinarians commonly discuss with pet owners. Some of the most common toxins for dogs include:
Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs metabolize much more slowly than people. Dark chocolate, baking chocolate, and cocoa powder contain higher concentrations and are especially dangerous. Chocolate toxicity may cause vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, increased heart rate, tremors, seizures, or collapse.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in some sugar-free gum, candies, baked goods, beverages, and toothpaste. It is highly toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms quickly. Xylitol poisoning may lead to vomiting, weakness, loss of coordination, seizures, liver failure, or coma. The FDA also warns that symptoms of xylitol poisoning can include vomiting followed by signs of low blood sugar, such as weakness, staggering, collapse, and seizures.
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause sudden kidney injury in dogs, even in small amounts. Some dogs may become sick soon after eating them, while others may appear normal at first before kidney damage begins to develop. Any ingestion should be treated as a potential emergency.
Rat and Mouse Poison
Rodenticides can contain several different toxic ingredients, including anticoagulants, cholecalciferol, bromethalin, or phosphides. Depending on the ingredient, rat or mouse poison may cause internal bleeding, kidney failure, seizures, paralysis, shock, collapse, or death. Symptoms may not appear for several days, which makes early veterinary guidance especially important.
Toxic Plants
Certain plants can cause serious dog poisoning. Sago palms, for example, are highly toxic to dogs and cats, with the seeds posing a major danger. Ingestion can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, seizures, bleeding problems, liver damage, or liver failure.
Antifreeze
Antifreeze containing ethylene glycol is extremely toxic to dogs and cats, even in small amounts. Pets may be drawn to it because of its sweet taste. Antifreeze poisoning can cause vomiting, excessive thirst, increased urination, lethargy, uncoordinated walking, seizures, and kidney failure.
Onions and Garlic
Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia in dogs and cats. These ingredients may be found in raw foods, cooked dishes, powders, seasonings, and processed foods. Signs may include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, pale gums, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and dark or reddish urine.
Human Medications
Prescription medications, over-the-counter pain relievers, sleep aids, antidepressants, ADHD medications, and other human medications can be dangerous for dogs. Never assume a medication that is safe for people is safe for pets.
The signs of dog poisoning can vary widely depending on the substance involved. Some dogs show symptoms quickly, while others may not appear sick until the toxin has already caused internal damage.
Common signs of dog poisoning include:
If your dog shows any of these symptoms after possible toxic exposure, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
If your dog eats something toxic, stay calm and act quickly.
First, remove your dog from the area and prevent them from eating more of the substance. If it is safe to do so, collect the packaging, container, label, plant material, medication bottle, or any remaining pieces of what your dog may have eaten.
Next, call your veterinarian, an emergency veterinary hospital, or animal poison control right away. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. The AVMA advises pet owners not to wait after a possible poisoning because time is critical for successful treatment.
If you are directed to seek emergency care, bring your dog in as quickly as possible. Bring the packaging or a photo of the product with you so the veterinary team can identify the ingredients and determine the safest treatment plan.
If your dog may be experiencing dog poisoning in Temecula, call EPIC Vets at 951-695-5044 and begin heading to our emergency hospital.
When you call a veterinarian or poison control, the following information can help them assess your dog’s risk:
Even if you do not have every detail, call anyway. Your veterinary team can help guide you based on the information available.
Some home remedies can make dog poisoning worse. Do not try to treat poisoning at home unless a veterinarian or animal poison control expert tells you to.
Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed. Some substances can cause more damage if vomited back up, and some dogs may aspirate vomit into their lungs. Pet Poison Helpline also advises pet owners not to give home antidotes or induce vomiting without consulting a veterinarian or poison control resource first.
You should also avoid giving milk, oil, bread, human medication, hydrogen peroxide, or any home remedy without professional guidance. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own, especially if your dog ate a known toxin.
Treatment for dog poisoning depends on the toxin, the amount ingested, how much time has passed, and your dog’s symptoms.
Emergency treatment may involve several steps to reduce toxin absorption, support the body, and monitor for complications. Depending on the situation, your veterinary team may induce vomiting under medical supervision, administer activated charcoal, provide IV fluids, run bloodwork or urinalysis, monitor blood pressure, or give medications to control vomiting, tremors, or seizures.
More serious cases may require oxygen support, liver or kidney support, blood clotting evaluation, hospitalization, and close monitoring. Some toxins require fast decontamination, while others require supportive care over time because complications may develop later.
You should seek emergency veterinary care right away if your dog ate a known toxin or if you are unsure whether the substance is dangerous.
Go to an emergency vet immediately if your dog is repeatedly vomiting, shaking, having tremors or seizures, acting weak, collapsing, having difficulty breathing, showing pale gums, bleeding, becoming severely lethargic, acting disoriented, losing coordination, or showing sudden behavior changes.
When it comes to dog poisoning, it is always safer to call early than to wait.
Dog poisoning can become serious quickly, but fast action can improve your pet’s chances of recovery. If your dog eats something toxic, contact a veterinarian or animal poison control immediately and prepare to seek emergency care.
At EPIC Vets, our emergency and critical care team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for pets facing toxic ingestion and poisoning emergencies in Temecula and surrounding Southern California communities.
Our team can evaluate your dog, identify possible risks, provide emergency treatment, monitor for complications, and support your pet through recovery.
If your dog may have eaten something toxic, call EPIC Vets at 951-695-5044 or come directly to our emergency hospital for urgent care.
Heatstroke in dogs is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary care. During warmer months in Southern California, emergency veterinarians see an increase in dogs suffering from overheating after walks, outdoor activity, car rides, or time spent outside in high temperatures.
Dogs cannot regulate heat the same way humans can. Once a dog’s body temperature rises too high, heatstroke can quickly lead to organ failure, seizures, collapse, and death without fast treatment.
If your dog is excessively panting, vomiting, disoriented, unable to stand, collapsing, or having seizures, contact EPIC Vets immediately and begin heading to our emergency veterinary hospital in Temecula.
Knowing the signs of heatstroke in dogs and acting quickly can make a critical difference.
Heatstroke in dogs occurs when a dog’s body temperature becomes dangerously elevated, and they cannot cool themselves effectively. A normal temperature for dogs is generally between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Heatstroke becomes a serious concern once temperatures rise above 104 degrees and can become critical above 105 degrees.
Unlike people, dogs primarily cool themselves through panting. In hot weather or humid conditions, panting may no longer be enough to regulate body temperature safely.
Heatstroke can happen very quickly, especially during Southern California summers.
Heatstroke in dogs can develop in many everyday situations, including:
Even a few minutes in unsafe heat conditions can become dangerous. If you are concerned your dog is overheating, it is safest to contact EPIC Vets right away.
Heatstroke in dogs can happen much faster than many pet owners expect. A short walk during peak heat, a few minutes in a parked car, or outdoor play without enough shade can quickly become dangerous.
Dogs with flat faces, thick coats, underlying health conditions, or excess weight may overheat even faster. Because symptoms can progress quickly, it is important to act as soon as your dog shows signs of distress.
Do not wait for your dog to cool down on their own. If you think your dog may have heatstroke, call EPIC Vets and start heading to our Temecula emergency hospital.
Recognizing the early warning signs of heatstroke in dogs is extremely important. Symptoms often begin mildly and rapidly progress.
Common signs include:
Heatstroke should always be treated as an emergency.
Some dogs are more vulnerable to heatstroke than others.
Higher risk dogs include:
Brachycephalic breeds are especially vulnerable because their shortened airways make it more difficult to cool themselves through panting.
If you suspect heatstroke in dogs, act immediately.
Move your dog into a cool or air-conditioned area right away. Offer small amounts of cool water but do not force your dog to drink. Apply cool water to the paws, stomach, and body while preparing to head to the emergency vet.
Avoid using ice water, which can make cooling less effective and may worsen circulation problems. Most importantly, contact an emergency veterinarian immediately and begin heading to the hospital.
Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own. Heatstroke can continue causing internal damage even after a dog appears calmer.
Heatstroke in dogs often requires intensive emergency care and close monitoring. Treatment may include intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, active cooling measures, bloodwork, and ongoing diagnostics to check for organ damage.
In more severe cases, dogs may also need treatment for shock, clotting abnormalities, or other complications. Heatstroke can affect the kidneys, lungs, heart, brain, and other organs, so early treatment can significantly improve the chance of recovery.
EPIC Vets provides 24/7 emergency and critical care for pets in Temecula and surrounding Southern California communities.
Preventing heatstroke starts with limiting heat exposure and recognizing unsafe conditions.
To help protect your dog:
If temperatures feel too hot for you, they may already be dangerous for your dog.
At EPIC Vets, our emergency veterinary team is equipped to evaluate and treat heat-related emergencies quickly. EPIC Vets provides 24/7 emergency and critical care services for pets throughout Temecula and surrounding Southern California communities.
If your dog may be experiencing heatstroke, contact EPIC Vets immediately and begin heading to the hospital for emergency care.
Fast action can save your dog’s life.
A rattlesnake bite can become life-threatening for dogs in a matter of hours. If a rattlesnake may have bitten your dog, do not wait for symptoms to get worse. Call an emergency veterinarian immediately and begin heading in for care.
In Temecula and throughout Southern California, rattlesnake encounters become more common during warmer months. Dogs are naturally curious, which means a quick sniff near a trail, bush, rock pile, or backyard can quickly turn into an emergency.
At EPIC Vets, our emergency team treats urgent conditions for pets throughout Temecula and surrounding communities 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Fast treatment matters after a rattlesnake bite and knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make a major difference.
Yes. A rattlesnake bite should always be treated as a veterinary emergency.
Even when symptoms seem mild at first, rattlesnake venom can spread quickly through the body and lead to severe swelling, tissue damage, breathing problems, clotting abnormalities, shock, and other life-threatening complications.
Some dogs show signs immediately. Others may appear stable for a short period before symptoms rapidly worsen.
Because every rattlesnake bite is different, the safest decision is always to seek emergency veterinary care as quickly as possible.
If a rattlesnake bit your dog or you suspect a rattlesnake bite, take these steps immediately:
1. Move Your Dog Away
Do not attempt to catch, kill, or closely identify the snake. Your priority should be safely removing your dog and yourself.
2. Keep Your Dog Calm and Limit Movement
Movement can increase circulation and allow venom to spread more quickly. Carry smaller dogs if possible. Larger dogs should walk slowly and only as needed to get safely to the car.
3. Call an Emergency Veterinarian Right Away
Call ahead while someone else drives if possible. Let the veterinary team know your dog may have a rattlesnake bite so they can prepare for your arrival.
4. Head to the Emergency Vet Immediately
Do not wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking care.
If your dog may have a rattlesnake bite in Temecula, call EPIC Vets immediately at 951-695-5044.
The signs of a rattlesnake bite can vary depending on the amount of venom, bite location, and your dog’s size.
Common signs of a rattlesnake bite in dogs include:
Many dogs are bitten on the face or muzzle because they investigate snakes by sniffing them. Swelling around the face and neck can become especially dangerous if it affects breathing.
There is a lot of outdated advice online about rattlesnake bites. Some common “first aid” methods can make the situation worse.
After a rattlesnake bite, do not:
The best thing you can do is keep your dog calm and get emergency veterinary care quickly.
Treatment for a rattlesnake bite depends on the severity of the bite and how your dog responds to the venom.
After your dog arrives at the emergency hospital, the veterinary team will evaluate swelling, pain levels, breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and overall stability. Many dogs require immediate supportive care to help manage the effects of venom and reduce the risk of serious complications.
Treatment may involve antivenom, IV fluids, pain management, bloodwork, clotting tests, oxygen support, wound care, hospitalization, and close monitoring. Antivenom is often one of the most important parts of treatment because it helps counteract venom circulating through the body.
Some dogs recover quickly with prompt treatment. Others may require extended hospitalization and additional supportive care depending on the severity of the rattlesnake bite.
Recovery time depends on the severity of the rattlesnake bite, how quickly treatment starts, and how your dog responds to care.
Some dogs improve within a few days. More severe cases may require longer recovery periods, especially when tissue damage or complications occur.
The sooner emergency treatment begins, the better the chances of reducing serious complications.
Yes. Many dogs survive a rattlesnake bite with prompt emergency treatment.
However, rattlesnake bites should never be considered minor injuries. Delaying care can significantly increase the risk of serious complications.
If you think your dog may have a rattlesnake bite, immediate veterinary care gives your pet the best chance at recovery.
Rattlesnakes are common throughout Temecula and many parts of Southern California, especially during spring, summer, and early fall.
Dogs may encounter rattlesnakes while:
Warm mornings and evenings are often active times for rattlesnakes.
If your dog may have been bitten by a rattlesnake, EPIC Vets can help evaluate symptoms, provide urgent treatment, and monitor for complications that may not be visible right away.
Our Temecula emergency team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for situations that cannot wait. With emergency diagnostics, pain management, antivenom support when appropriate, hospitalization, and ongoing monitoring, we are prepared to care for pets during serious rattlesnake bite emergencies.
Call EPIC Vets at 951-695-5044 or come directly to our emergency hospital if your dog shows signs of a rattlesnake bite.
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Lonny Pace, DVM, DACVECC
“Nik nac patty wack, give a dog a bone… uh oh!”
Dogs and cats are naturally curious. They explore their environment with their mouths, paws, and noses—which sometimes leads them to swallow objects they shouldn’t. When a pet ingests something that isn’t meant to be eaten, veterinarians refer to it as a foreign body ingestion.
Foreign bodies are one of the more common reasons pets are seen in emergency veterinary hospitals. While many cases can be treated successfully, some situations require prompt medical attention to prevent complications.
At EPIC Vets – Emergency Pet Intensive Care, we regularly help pets experiencing foreign body ingestion and guide pet owners through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
Understanding what foreign bodies are, the signs to watch for, and how they are treated can help you act quickly and confidently if your pet gets into trouble.
A foreign body is any object that a pet swallows that cannot be safely digested.
Some objects may pass through the digestive tract without causing problems. Others can become lodged in the stomach or intestines, potentially leading to blockage or irritation.
Foreign bodies can vary widely in size, shape, and material—from fabric and toys to string-like materials or bones.
Dogs tend to explore the world by chewing and swallowing objects, especially during play or when investigating food-related smells.
Some of the most common foreign bodies seen in dogs include:
Dogs that eat quickly or enjoy chewing may be at higher risk.
Cats are often drawn to lightweight objects that move easily, which can lead to accidental ingestion during play.
Common foreign bodies in cats include:
String-like materials are especially important to watch for in cats because they can become lodged under the tongue or move through the intestines in a way that causes irritation.
Not every ingestion causes immediate symptoms, but some pets may develop signs that something is wrong.
Possible signs include:
Cats with string-type objects may also show repeated swallowing motions or have visible thread coming from the mouth.
If you notice these signs or suspect your pet may have swallowed something unusual, contacting a veterinarian is the safest next step.
When a foreign object becomes lodged in the digestive tract, it can prevent food and fluids from moving normally through the intestines. In some situations, this blockage can reduce blood flow to surrounding tissues or cause irritation to the digestive tract.
Early evaluation helps veterinarians determine whether the object may pass naturally or whether treatment is needed.
Prompt care can help prevent complications and often leads to simpler treatment options
At EPIC Vets, diagnosing a suspected foreign body typically involves several steps:
A veterinarian evaluates your pet’s abdomen, hydration status, and overall condition.
Imaging tools may include:
These diagnostics help determine the safest and most effective treatment plan.
Treatment depends on the type of object, its location, and how long it has been present.
Possible treatments include:
If the object is small and expected to pass safely, your veterinarian may recommend monitoring your pet closely.
If the object is still in the stomach, a veterinarian may be able to remove it using a flexible camera scope, avoiding surgery.
If an object becomes lodged in the intestines or causes a blockage, surgical removal may be required. This procedure allows veterinarians to safely remove the object and examine surrounding tissue.
Most pets recover well following treatment, particularly when the issue is addressed early.
Recovery may include:
Your veterinary team will provide detailed aftercare instructions tailored to your pet’s needs.
While curiosity is part of being a pet, there are steps owners can take to reduce risk.
Helpful prevention tips include:
Small changes at home can go a long way toward preventing accidents.
Foreign body cases are something our team manages frequently. At EPIC Vets, we provide:
Our goal is to diagnose problems quickly, treat them safely, and help your pet return home as soon as possible.
Pet owners in Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, and surrounding Inland Empire communities rely on EPIC Vets when urgent medical situations arise.
Learn more about the surgical procedures performed at EPIC Vets here.
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Lonny Pace, DVM, DACVECC
Most pet owners are familiar with mild allergic reactions — maybe a little itchiness or swelling after a bug bite. But in rare cases, pets can experience a much more serious reaction called anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis is a rapid, systemic allergic reaction that affects multiple organs in the body. While it can develop suddenly, prompt veterinary care and early recognition allow most pets to recover well with treatment.
At EPIC Vets (Emergency Pet Intensive Care) in Temecula, our emergency team regularly evaluates allergic reactions in pets. Understanding what anaphylaxis in dogs and cats is — and how veterinarians diagnose and treat it — can help pet owners feel more prepared if it ever occurs.
Anaphylaxis is a rapid, severe allergic reaction that occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to a substance (called an allergen). In pets, the reaction can develop within minutes and can quickly become fatal if not treated.Anaphylaxis occurs when the immune system overreacts to a trigger, releasing large amounts of inflammatory chemicals into the bloodstream. These chemicals can affect the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract, liver, skin, and respiratory system.
Unlike people, who often experience airway swelling during severe allergic reactions, dogs and cats tend to show symptoms related to the gastrointestinal system and circulation.
This difference is why veterinarians often look for sudden digestive symptoms and changes in blood pressure as early indicators of anaphylaxis in pets.
A variety of substances can trigger allergic reactions in animals. Some of the more common causes include:
In many cases, the exact trigger is never definitively identified
Symptoms of anaphylaxis can appear quickly and may involve several body systems at once.
Veterinarians often look for sudden gastrointestinal and circulatory changes first.
These symptoms can occur because allergic mediators affect blood flow and organs like the liver and intestines.
Because symptoms can vary from pet to pet, veterinarians evaluate the overall pattern of signs rather than relying on a single symptom.
Anaphylaxis can affect blood pressure, circulation, and oxygen delivery throughout the body. Early medical intervention allows veterinarians to stabilize these systems and prevent complications.
Even when symptoms appear to improve quickly, monitoring is important because allergic reactions can sometimes progress or recur.
This is why pets suspected of having an anaphylactic reaction are typically evaluated promptly and monitored closely.
One of the more confusing aspects of anaphylaxis is that some pets may appear to improve shortly after the initial reaction. Owners often report that their pet collapsed, vomited, or developed sudden diarrhea, but then seemed more alert by the time they arrived at the hospital. This temporary improvement can create a false sense of reassurance.
During an anaphylactic reaction, the body attempts to compensate for dangerously low blood pressure by redirecting blood flow away from organs such as the stomach and intestines and toward vital organs like the heart and brain. This shift in circulation is one reason vomiting and diarrhea are commonly seen early in the reaction.
While this compensatory response may temporarily improve a pet’s appearance, it does not mean the underlying reaction has resolved. Without treatment, pets remain at risk for recurrent shock and other serious complications, including severe gastrointestinal injury that can result in bloody diarrhea. This is why prompt veterinary evaluation is recommended even if a pet appears to be feeling better after the initial event.
There is no single test that immediately confirms anaphylaxis. Instead, veterinarians combine physical examination findings, medical history, and diagnostic testing to make the diagnosis.
At EPIC Vets, two rapid diagnostic tools can provide helpful information during these cases.
A quick ultrasound evaluation of the gallbladder wall can be extremely useful. In many dogs experiencing anaphylaxis, the gallbladder wall becomes thickened due to inflammation and fluid accumulation.
This ultrasound exam is:
Because it can be performed quickly in the emergency setting, it is a valuable tool for confirming what veterinarians suspect based on clinical signs.
Blood work can also provide supportive information. While these tests may take a little longer to show abnormalities and are not as definitive as ultrasound findings, they can help evaluate:
Together, these diagnostic tools help veterinarians confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.
Treatment focuses on stabilizing circulation, controlling the allergic reaction, and supporting affected organs.
Depending on the severity of the reaction, treatment may include:
Some pets improve quickly with treatment, while others may require several hours of observation or overnight monitoring.
A young Pug was brought to EPIC Vets after suddenly becoming weak and vomiting shortly after being outside.
On arrival, the veterinary team noted low blood pressure and signs consistent with an allergic reaction.
To help confirm the diagnosis, the team performed:
With rapid stabilization, medications, and IV fluids, the dog responded well and was discharged the following day.
Cases like this highlight how quick recognition and veterinary care can lead to excellent outcomes.
If your pet develops sudden vomiting, collapse, or other concerning symptoms after a possible allergen exposure, the best step is to seek veterinary evaluation as soon as possible.
Helpful steps include:
Avoid attempting to manage severe reactions at home, as professional care may be needed to stabilize your pet.
In some cases, preventing future reactions is possible if the trigger is identified.
Pet owners can help reduce risk by:
While recurrence is possible, many pets live completely normal lives after an episode when their medical team is aware of the history.
Pet owners in Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, and the surrounding Inland Empire rely on EPIC Vets for emergency veterinary care when sudden allergic reactions occur. Our hospital is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide advanced diagnostics and critical care when pets need it most.
While anaphylaxis is one type of emergency reaction, pets can also experience other serious conditions related to environmental exposure. Heatstroke, for example, is another life-threatening emergency we commonly treat during warmer months. You can learn more about the warning signs and prevention tips in our guide to heatstroke in dogs.
Heatstroke & Heat Exhaustion Symptoms in Pets – EPIC Vets Temecula CA
High temperatures can danger your pets and put them at risk for developing heatstroke, or heat exhaustion. Spring and Summer heat in Southern California is extreme and can take a toll on your pets. Heatstroke progresses quickly, so it’s imperative to act on it as soon as possible and recognize heat exhaustion symptoms.
Heatstroke is also common due to pets being left in a hot car, and these patients rarely make it to our clinic alive. Never leave your dog in a parked car with temperatures over 60º unless running with the air conditioning on. However, you should still be careful as cars can suddenly stop running, and dogs can accidentally lock you out.
The effects of heatstroke on a pet are incredibly devastating, and it is very common for pets not to survive without immediate veterinary intervention.
Also known as heat exhaustion, heatstroke occurs in pets when their body temperature elevates and exceeds its normal range. Both dogs and cats have few sweat glands which makes them more susceptible to experiencing heatstroke. Without as many sweat glands, pets can’t sweat and cool down like humans can. In addition, it’s important to be careful and aware of hot asphalt in the Summer. Concrete will cause burns to your pets’ paw pads, so if it’s too hot for you to walk barefoot, it’s also too hot for your pet.
beware, the risk of heatstroke is higher in certain pets, like brachycephalic breeds, pets with dark coats, short noses, and preexisting health conditions. In addition, dogs who have heart failure or laryngeal paralysis as underlying conditions are more likely to experience heatstroke.
Brachycephalic breeds include Pugs, English and French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos. Dogs with laryngeal paralysis can experience heatstroke at any time in the year but especially in the Summer. Ultimately, longer noses and larger nostrils are more efficient as air conditioners for pets.
***Nearly all dogs we treat for heatstroke are brachycephalic breeds.***
Heatstroke can appear as excessive panting, drooling, restlessness, reddened gums, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, collapsion, and seizures.
Pets with preexisting health conditions face a higher risk of heat exhaustion. Elderly pets, overweight pets, and brachycephalic breeds with short noses are more likely to experience heatstroke. If left untreated, heatstroke can quickly lead to organ failure, resulting in extreme health complications or death.
You may think about shaving your dog for the Summer to keep them cool, however, it actually has the opposite effect. To clarify, dogs don’t have an appreciable amount of sweat glands. Further, the primary method for dogs and cats to regulate their temperatures is through their nose and by extending their footpads. Therefore, removing their hair is essentially eliminating the insulation they have. Since they lack sweat glands on their skin, they are unable to cool themselves from perspiration.
It’s crucial to act quickly to avoid serious complications from developing.
What you can do if your pet is experiencing heat exhaustion:
What not to do if your pet is experiencing heat exhaustion:
If deemed necessary by the vet in instances where the body temperature is over 105º, an emergency critical care estimate will be given immediately.
In most cases, an IV catheter is placed and fluids are administered. Additionally, anesthesia is administered with ventilation for up to one hour, and other measures are taken to reduce their temperature as quickly as possible.
Simply bathing a pet in water is usually insufficient. A number of diagnostic tests will be performed to evaluate if the life-threatening condition called DIC (disseminated intravascular coagulation) is occurring. In addition, plasma transfusions may be ordered to treat and prevent this condition from worsening. Hospital stays may be as short as 4 hours, however, most stay 12-24 hours.
A state-of-the-art diagnostic system is used at EPIC Vets, which is more sensitive than typical hospitals’ systems and enables us to give an advanced warning when necessary. This is based on a viscoelastic hemostatic technology and is usually limited to research hospitals.
The best way to prevent heatstroke from happening is to be aware of the signs, symptoms, and risk factors.
Summer can still be enjoyable for you and your pets, however, your pets will require extra care and attention to avoid overheating.
Our critical care veterinarians and clinic staff are equipped to treat conditions like heatstroke. Treatment may include fluid IVs and continuous monitoring to ensure your pet is in good condition. In addition, our doctors will check for complications like blood pressure issues, kidney failure, and other abnormalities.
It’s important to monitor your pets closely on hot, humid days. Heatstroke can be life-threatening and fatal if left untreated. It’s important to act immediately.
If you think your pet may be suffering from heatstroke or you recognize heat exhaustion symptoms, please call our clinic right away to inform us you’re coming in for treatment.
If you live in the Western United States, including Southern California, you’ve likely come into contact with a grass-like weed called foxtail. Other names for foxtails are grass awns. Foxtail has tough barbed seed heads and can easily embed in your dog or cat’s nose, skin, eyes, and ears. It’s important to know what to look for if your pet has come into contact with foxtails.
You can come into contact with foxtails in open areas such as hiking trails, fields, and even in parks. In our area, foxtails are found in many places and cause injuries to pets, especially to dogs, hundreds of times a year. You may find this spiky plant stuck to your socks or shoes after a hike.
Foxtails are spiky and hard and they are designed to burrow to spread and this same design makes it easy for them to latch onto animal fur and penetrate the skin. The barbs of the foxtail embed the seed in the skin, or into the ears, eyes, nose, and paws.
Foxtails in your dog’s paw is a common foxtail injury. The most common symptom is swelling on the top of the paw, between the toes. You may notice your dog (or cat) limping, or excessively licking their paws. You may see swelling or even notice an infection. It’s important for you to get to the vet if you notice infection, or if you notice symptoms.
If a foxtail is embedded in your pet’s eye you will notice the eye watering or a discharge, swelling closed or squinting. This can lead to blindness so seeking veterinary care right away is important.
Foxtails can also work their way into the prepuce of the penis of the vulva. Your dog may begin persistently licking their genitals if they have a foxtail in those sensitive areas.
Your pet can inhale a foxtail seed. While this is less common than other injuries, if your dog sniffs around a trail or a field, they can easily inhale a foxtail. If this happens, your dog will suddenly begin to sneeze violently and likely will experience a bloody nose. This is serious because the foxtail can enter through the nose and exit out the eye, causing permanent damage.
The ear is actually the most common body part affected by foxtails. The foxtail will move down the ear canal toward the eardrum. The most common symptom of a foxtail in the ear is a rapid onset of your dog is shaking its head vigorously, tilting its head to one side, or pawing at its ear. There may even be discharge from the ear. In addition, loss of balance may also occur. If you notice these symptoms, visit your vet right away before permanent damage can occur.
Foxtail injuries can migrate from one area of the body to another. One example of this is that a foxtail in a paw, if untreated, can make its way to the lung, leading to a more serious problem.
Foxtails can cause infections. Be sure to check your pet if they are lethargic, are experiencing swelling or bleeding anywhere, and especially if you see or smell an infection. If this occurs, take them to an emergency vet, like EPIC Vets, right away.
What to Expect Most foxtail injuries can be treated outpatient; however, the key is quick intervention by a veterinarian.
Moderate Sedation – Foxtails in the ears and eyes usually require moderate sedation. These injuries are painful and many pets simply do not like their ears to be handled, much less scoped for foxtails.
Full Sedation – Foxtails in the nose will require full anesthesia because most dogs will still sneeze while under light or moderate sedation, which can complicate the removal of the foxtail.
Foxtails in the paws and toes require full anesthesia and a small surgical procedure to open the area where the foxtail is suspected to be, and many times, the foxtail has migrated up the leg. If this occurs, an ultrasound can be used to locate the foxtail but this is rare. If the foxtail can’t be found, a veterinarian might wait and watch to see if an abscess forms in another part of the body such as the shoulder or neck. In some cases, a CT scan may be recommended to locate the foxtail.
When you’re hiking, keep an eye out for foxtails and steer your pet away from areas where it’s growing. After a hike, it’s a good idea to brush out your dog’s fur and check them over for foxtails. There are also products you can use to prevent foxtails including face protection and booties for paws. If you are an avid hiker, those products might be a wise investment.
It’s best to avoid foxtails whenever possible. If you do encounter them, be sure to thoroughly inspect your pet’s hair, ears, and between their toes. A foxtail injury is considered medically urgent and your pet should be seen by your regular veterinarian or EPIC if your vet is unavailable. Our staff is available 24/7 to help pets in emergency situations and treat hundreds of foxtail cases each year. Contact us to start the intake process before you arrive.
