Pet First Aid: What to Do in Common Emergencies

Pet first aid is emergency treatment given to a pet before a veterinarian’s care. It can help to stabilise and comfort the animal while transported to an emergency vet. There are a range of emergencies where pet first aid can prevent serious injury.

Here are some common emergencies and what you can do for your pet.

Cuts and Wounds

In situations where your pet sustains cuts or wounds leading to bleeding, follow these steps:

1. Gently clean the area to eliminate any dirt or debris
2. Use a dressing or a cotton pad to apply pressure to the wound, slowing down the blood flow
3. Secure the dressing or pad in place with a bandage
4. If possible, elevate the injured limb
5. If bleeding persists, retain the initial dressing and secure a second one over it, over it
6. Transport your pet to a veterinary clinic.

Breathing Difficulties

Breathing difficulties can be caused by heart failure, asthma, allergic reactions, obstructions, poison, aspiration pneumonia and brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome. If your pet experiences breathing difficulties keep them calm and still, and transport them immediately to a vet.

Poisoning

Some pets tend to be curious but it can lead to ingesting toxic objects or liquids.

Common signs of poisoning can be;

• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Trouble breathing
• Agitation

If you suspect your pet has swallowed something poisonous, try to remove the substance from their mouth (do not induce vomiting) and contact your veterinarian. Make sure you take any packaging to the vet.

Car Accidents

Car accidents are a common cause of emergency veterinary visits. It might result in fractures and broken bones, bleeding and internal injuries. If your pet is involved in a car accident, follow these steps.

• Ensure your safety first and move them to an area safe from traffic and hazards
• Apply pressure to any wounds
• Wrap broken bones in bandages if the animal allows
• Transport them to an emergency vet.

Seizures

Seizures can be distressing, yet it is important to stay calm and take the following steps:

• Clear away any objects that could harm your pet
• Time the duration of the seizure
• Once the seizure is over, keep your pet calm, quiet and warm
• Contact your veterinarian.

Burns

Burns are not uncommon in cats and dogs, particularly if they tend to follow you into the kitchen. If your pet sustains a burn:

• Immediately run cool water over it or
• Apply a cool compress for a minimum of 10 minutes.
• Seek further treatment at your local vet.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is caused by long hours outside on hot summer days or in a car with no air-conditioning and can be life-threatening. Signs of heat stroke include excessive panting and tiredness.

If you suspect your pet is suffering from heat stroke, follow these steps;

• Place your pet in a cool area
• Wet them down with a hose or bucket, avoiding their face
• Use a fan to help keep them cool (Do not wrap them in a wet towel as this can trap the heat)
• Offer your pet water
• Immediately transport your pet to an emergency vet.

Karingal Vet Hospital – Pet First Aid

Most common emergencies require veterinarian treatment to ensure that your pet has not sustained any permanent damage. Following these general guidelines will give your pet the best chance of recovery. For more information about any of these emergencies or more specific information about your pet, contact our staff at Karingal Vet Hospital today.