Ep 86 Pet emergency vs urgent care vs as soon as possible - Dr. Samantha Bilko

Summary

In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, hosts Michael and Stephen Shirley are joined by Dr. Sam Bilko, a board-certified veterinarian specializing in emergency and critical care. They discuss the training and preparation required for emergency and critical care veterinarians, as well as the body's response in traumatic situations. Dr. Bilko explains the difference between emergency and critical care and provides an example of how they work together in cases of toxin ingestion. They also discuss the considerations for scheduling exams and the impact of COVID-19 on emergency care. The episode concludes with a fun fact about copper toxicity in pennies.

Takeaways

• Emergency and critical care veterinarians undergo extensive training in life-threatening emergencies and the ongoing care of critically ill patients.
• In traumatic situations, the body's response can lead to cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurologic changes.
• Emergency care focuses on immediate intervention and stabilization, while critical care involves ongoing monitoring and support in the ICU.
• Pet owners should consider pet insurance to help cover the costs of emergency and critical care.
• When seeking emergency care, pet owners should provide as much information as possible, including medications and medical records.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:20
Understanding Critical Care Veterinary Medicine

02:22
Training and Preparation for Emergency and Critical Care

03:36
The Body's Response in Traumatic Situations

04:22
Difference Between Emergency and Critical Care

05:14
Example: Emergency and Critical Care for Toxin Ingestion

06:55
Differences Between General Practice and Emergency Care

07:52
Urgent Care vs. Emergency Care

10:29
Considerations for Scheduling Exams

11:57
Impact of COVID-19 on Emergency Care

13:11
Showing Appreciation to Emergency Care Teams

14:00
What to Bring to the Veterinary ER

15:38
The Importance of Pet Insurance for Emergency Care

16:52
Advice for Pet Owners in Emergency Situations

17:30
The New Normal in Emergency Care

18:58
Fun Fact: Copper Toxicity in Pennies

20:30
Closing Remarks

Got a question for Michael and Stephen? Run across something interesting you want to share with the show? Do you have a topic idea for a future episode? Send it to us at thefamilypetpodcast@gmail.com.

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