What you need to know BEFORE you take your dog to the park or dog run again!

By BL Ochman

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Something awful that happened to our friend’s dog made me realize how unprepared I am, and most dog owners are, if our dogs are suddenly hurt or sick.

Here’s what you need to know before you take your dog to a park or dog run again.

Very early the other morning, one of Benny’s Central Park buds keeled over while running after a ball. He needed a vet, quickly.

We didn’t know where the nearest vet would be who would be open that early in the morning.

None of us were carrying money.

Our friend couldn’t get a cab to stop and wound up carrying his 70 pound dog a mile to his vet’s office through Manhattan streets. So incredibly sadly, his dog didn’t make it.

We city folk don’t drive to the dog run like our country cousins. Benny and I walk a mile and a half in each direction to get to Central Park. Everyone I know walks to the park or dog run from their home.

Add this information to your phone now, TODAY
This heartbreakingly sad morning made me realize what you need to know any time you take your dog to a park or a dog run:

1- The location of the nearest vet, their phone number and office hours

2- The name of a car service that will take you and your dog to an emergency veterinary facility if your own vet’s office isn’t open. We tried two pet car services, but it was too early in the morning and they couldn’t come for an hour. They were totally useless.

3- If you have a smart phone, learn how to use Yelp to find the nearest emergency vet, and call before you bring your dog there to be sure they are open.

Please find this information today, add it to your phone, and then be sure to carry your phone, and money for a cab or car service any time you take your dog out.

In Manhattan, 24-hour veterinary facilities include:
- Fifth Avenue Veterinary Specialists
1 West 15th Street (Fifth Avenue) (212) 924-3311
- NYC Veterinary Specialists, 410 West 55th Street,(212) 767-0099
- Animal Medical Center, 510 East 62nd Street, (212) 838-8100
- Westside Veterinary Center, 220 West 83rd Street, (212) 580-1800

If you know another 24-hour vet facility in Manhattan, please add it on the comments.

RIP beautiful, sweet Champ
Please consider giving a donation to Stray from the Heart in Champ’s memory and honor.