As a pet owner, you know that your furry companions are more than just pets — they are family. You want your dogs to be healthy and happy and to have a long life by your side. However, as much as you try to keep them safe, there will be times when they require professional medical attention. As a responsible pet owner, it is important to keep an eye on your dog's behavior and know the signs that indicate they need to see a vet.

There are some specific signs that you should be on the lookout for to know if your pet is having an emergency. Once you notice them you should take your pet in for emergency care as soon as you can.  These signs may be easy to spot for veteran pet owners. However, new pet owners may second-guess themselves. Below are some of the major signs that your pet needs to visit an emergency animal clinic.

If you're like most people who've chosen to open their hearts, homes, and lives to a feline friend, you probably already know that cats don't communicate quite the same way that people do. Known for their independence and ability to take care of themselves, cats instinctively hide their pain to avoid appearing vulnerable to possible predators — which means that your cat's behavior won't always tell you when it needs to visit an ER vet clinic.