22/04/2023
Why pet first aid is crucial to know
If your pet has an accident or becomes unwell suddenly, knowing how to administer basic first aid could be crucial. It gives you tools to prevent the situation from deteriorating by having the knowledge to stabilise your pet until veterinary treatment can be given.
Some of the common pet emergencies
Bite wounds – When your pet has been bitten the wound should be assessed immediately. If the wound is small, flush it with lukewarm water and apply a gauze pad. If the wound is bleeding heavily, pressure should be applied with a dry, clean dressing and the pet should be taken to the vets right away.
Breathing problems – If your pet is struggling to breath it is so important to stay calm. If you are panicking it will make their breathing worse. Take your pet to the nearest vet if their breathing isn’t stabilising.
If the pet has stopped breathing CPR should be undertaken. If the pet is choking the Heimlich Maneuver should be performed. (See diagrams below)
Burns – If your pet has been burnt you should cool the skin with cool water for at least 10-20 minutes. Either by running water or placing the burnt skin in water. Do not apply creams/ointments to the burn. Always contact your vet no matter what size your pets burn is. The vet will assess the severity and use specialist dressings/pain relief for treatment.
Electric shocks – If your pet is still being electrocuted, do not approach them until the power source has been switch off. If you are unable to switch off the power, use a non-conducting pole (Such as a wooden broom) to separate your pet from the live wire. Never use anything metal to move your pet.
Afterwards, assess your pets heartbeat and breathing. If they have stopped breathing, start CPR and contact your vets immediately. All pets that have had an electric shock should be checked by a vet as there may be internal/delayed injuries that are not obvious to begin with.
Poison - Many different house and garden items can be dangerous for pets therefore it is important to make yourself aware of as many items as possible. There is a 24h poison hotline that gives expert advice to pet owners who are worried that their pets have been exposed to something poisonous. 01202509000.
If your dog comes into contact with something poisonous the item/substance should be removed from their mouth or fur. Make sure you make a veterinary appointment straight away and if you have any packaging/remains of the item, take it with you to the appointment as it may help the vet to identify the poison.
While we always hope that our dogs will never need first aid, it is always safest to be prepared!
Recommended websites
https://www.animalpoisonline.co.uk/
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/all-pets/first-aid-for-pets
https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/firstaid
