Pet First Aid Basics

Our pets are prone to accidents as much as we do. As pet parents, we want to give them the best of everything, and to give them the best care is our utmost priority. Take note of these important points to remember when your furbaby may need it the most.

1. Poisoning

If your pet’s eyes or skin are exposed to toxic products, check the label at the back of the packaging for instructions for people who are exposed to the product. If the label instructs you to wash your hand with soap and water, then wash your pet’s skin with soap and water (make sure that it doesn’t get in their eyes, mouth, and nose) and call the veterinary clinic immediately.

2. Heatstroke

Heatstroke is common during hot summer days whether your pets are left under a roof or left outside your veranda. Symptoms include excessive panting, hot body temperature, and distress. You may reduce your pet’s body temperature by wetting the towel with cool water and applying it on their body. Make sure to go to your veterinarian as soon as possible after applying the cool towel on your pet as this is only serves as a first aid.

3. Seizures

All pets experiencing seizures should be kept inside a dark confined room or carrier until you arrive at the veterinary hospital.

4. Burns

Cool the burned area with cold water as quickly as possible. Cover it with damp cold towels. Make sure to bring your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible to medicate the burns.

5. Blood Loss

Cover the wounded area with a cloth to stop the bleeding. If the bleeding soaks the bandage, bring your pet to your veterinarian to treat the wound immediately as it may need surgery or sutures.

6. Difficulty in Breathing

You may try gently pumping on your pet’s chest using your palm if they are unconscious or doesn’t appear to be breathing. If your pet doesn’t respond from it, bring them to your veterinarian immediately.

After being involved in an emergency or accident, it is important that you take your pet for a veterinary examination as soon as possible, even if he appears to have recovered fully.

References:

First Aid for Dogs | VCA Animal Hospital (vcahospitals.com)

First Aid for Cats | VCA Animal Hospital (vcahospitals.com)