Here at All Creatures Veterinary Emergency Clinic, we are dedicated to our patients. Whenever they are ill, we are dedicated to ensuring that they get the fluids they need.

Fluid therapy is essential with sick patients, especially ones in shock or those that are losing fluids through vomiting or diarrhea. Fluids can also make patients that are not feeling well improve quickly.

When your pet is on IV fluids, it is really important to make sure that he or she is getting the right amount at the right rate. Too much fluid can do harm, and too little fluid will not do enough to really help your pet.

When we decide to give IV fluids, we take several factors into account when determining what the exact fluid needs are. First we have to determine how dehydrated your pet is and if he or she is losing fluids rapidly (from vomiting, diarrhea, or blood loss). We also calculate the normal fluids needed for regular maintenance.

If your pet is really dehydrated or losing fluids fast, we may start by trying to get a large amount of fluid in right away. Then, we will slow the fluid down until he or she gets the needed amount.

Even if your pet is not dehydrated, we may give fluids to help balance any electrolyte abnormalities. We may also give them to flush out the kidneys. Surgery is also safer with IV fluids.

If you have any questions about fluid therapy, don’t hesitate to contact us today at (209) 472-7387.