Oxygen Support for Pets
in Ottawa

Emergency Respiratory Care for Dogs and Cats

Breathing problems in pets can become serious very quickly. If your dog or cat is struggling to breathe, rapid veterinary assessment and supportive care are essential. At our urgent care veterinary clinic in Ottawa, we provide short-term oxygen support using flow-by oxygen and, when medically appropriate, intubation to help stabilize respiratory emergencies.

Please note: We are not equipped for prolonged oxygen therapy or hospitalization (e.g., oxygen cages). If ongoing oxygen support is required, we will stabilize your pet and arrange transfer to an appropriate 24-hour or specialty facility.

Conditions That May Require Oxygen Therapy

• Respiratory infections and pneumonia
• Severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis
• Heart-related conditions affecting breathing
• Trauma or airway obstruction
• Collapse or loss of consciousness
• Post-seizure recovery

Signs Your Pet Needs Urgent Veterinary Care

Bring your pet in right away or contact us immediately if you notice:

• Labored breathing
• Rapid breathing
• Wheezing
• Noisy breathing
• Blue, gray, or pale gums
• Collapse
• Severe coughing
• Obvious distress or panic while breathing

These can all be signs of a medical emergency requiring urgent evaluation.

How We Deliver Oxygen

At our clinic, oxygen support is used as a stabilization tool during emergencies. After assessing your pet, our team will determine the safest next step for immediate care and whether referral is needed.

Flow-By Oxygen

Flow-by oxygen delivers oxygen near your pet’s nose and mouth to increase the amount of oxygen they breathe in. This may be used as an immediate supportive measure for pets in respiratory distress.

Oxygen by Intubation

In more serious cases, oxygen may be provided by intubation when medically necessary. This allows the veterinary team to secure the airway and provide more controlled respiratory support.