Basic triage in dogs and cats: Part I

Emergency cases can present at any time of the day or night. All small animal practitioners need to have the skills to triage and stabilize common emergency cases even if they ultimately aim to refer the patient to another facility.

The first part of this 3-part review article series covers respiratory distress and seizures. A stepwise approach to categorize and stabilize these cases is outlined, along with helpful tips to optimize the referral experience, if indicated.

Having a strong methodical approach to animals in respiratory distress optimizes treatment. Similarly, achieving cessation of seizures, along with having a good understanding of the causes of seizures, allows for patient stabilization.

Do NOT refer emergent cases before completing basic stabilization. Many emergency cases do not require emergent referral and can be worked up by the primary veterinarian or sent to a referral clinic on an appointment basis after appropriate stabilization steps are completed.