The Pet Owner
In An Emergency

"An emergency represents a crisis to the pet owner"

**Components of a Crisis**
Highly charged environment Stages are fairly predictable Pre-Crisis: Series of ups and downs, coping at a normal level Stressful event upsets the normal balance, creates crisis, person is unable to cope using normal channels, usual ways become insufficient Symptoms occur Acute pain usually motivates the person to seek solutions Time Limited: A crisis state is limited because the body and mind can only sustain the stress for so long (usually about 72 hours). Resolve the crisis in a healthy manner by identifying alternatives Seek help Handle the crisis in a negative way by using: Denial Self-destructive behaviors Directing their attention toward other distractions (offen leading to another crisis). Intervention can make a difference with many clients.

**Responding to Clients in a Crisis**
Proceed quickly, decisively, and remain calm. Stabilize: Attend to immediate needs, emotions, and physiological states. Structure the environment to calm the pet owner and restore order. Attend to emotions, listen carefully, and focus on what the owner is feeling. Empower the pet owner as soon as possible, in any way possible. Evaluate needs and implement a plan of action. Assess the situation and prioritize/help the client identify the most important issue or concern. Explore available resources. Form a plan for how the client will proceed. Provide any necessary follow-up afterwords.