Pet Emergencies and First Aid

We sold the last of our Pet First Aid kits the other day and I thought that this might be a subject worth writing about. If you own a pet, you have probably thought about what you would do in an emergency situation. Our clients often wonder what they can do if their pet becomes ill or has an emergency. Of course, we always tell them that if they have a question or a problem, that is what we are here for. However, it is never a bad thing to be educated and prepared. With that said, I have outlined a few general guidelines for pet related emergencies:

Basic Rescue Checklist / Initial Assessment of Injured Pet 

If your pet is lying in the road, be sure the area is clear and that traffic is stopped. If you have a pair of gloves, put them on. It is best to wear gloves when uncertain of the orgin of any blood. You may need to muzzle your pet if he or she is injured. Dogs often bite when excited, scared or in pain. If you don't have a muzzle, cover your pet with a blanket or wrap a rope, necktie or belt around the bony part of his or her mouth and nose 2-3 times, so that it doesn't interfere with breathing. If your pet begins to retch or vomit, remove the muzzle immediately. Move your pet gently to prevent further injury. If your pet may have sustained a head, neck or spinal injury, slide them onto a flat, firm surface such as an ironing board, collapsed cardboard box, or plywood. Be sure to slide them slowly by pulling by the loose skin on the back of their neck and back. Lay your pet on its side and gently tie or tape him or her to the support.

Transporting Injured / Ill Pets

When you're ready to transport your pet, encourage him or her to lie quietly on their side. Cover your pet with a blanket. This will also help your pet to hold still and prevent heat loss. Don't put pressure on the abdomen. Keep their head and neck in normal position as much as possible. Be sure to call your veterinarian before transporting your pet so that they can be prepared to assist you when you arrive.

First Aid for Your Pet

First Aid is only a temporary measure until you have time to get to your veterinarian.
Here are some tips:

Bleeding - wrap a towel around the wound and apply pressure.
Vomiting / Diarrhea - withhold food, offer small amounts of water.
Fever - Take your pet's temperature with a lubricated (with Vaseline) rectal thermometer. A pet's normal temperature is 100-102.5°F.

Seizure - Remain calm; if necessary, move your pet away from stairs or other objects they may injure themselves on; avoid touching your pet until they come out of their seizure; record the length and severity of the seizure; when the seizure has ended, call your veterinarian.

Remember, your best bet is to call your veterinarian. No question is silly or stupid. Afterall, we are pet lovers just like you and want to help you keep your pet happy and healthy!