Question:

Do you have first aid tips for my pet in case of an emergency?

Answer:

As a concerned pet owner, you do everything you can to keep your dog healthy and happy. Despite your best efforts, however, illness and injury may occur. Knowing what to do in these situations can go a long way toward minimizing their impact on your pet’s health. Here are a few first-aid tips that can help you be prepared.

REMAIN CALM. A pet’s sudden injury or acute illness can be very upsetting. You must remain calm
when something happens so you can think clearly and take the appropriate action.

 
BREATHING PROBLEMS. In an emergency, it is essential to ensure that your dog is not
having any problems breathing. If it appears that your dog is having difficulty, transport your dog to the closest veterinary office immediately. Respiratory assistance should only be provided to pets if you have appropriate pet first-aid training.

BLEEDING. Stop any severe bleeding by placing direct pressure over the area and holding it for at least
5 to 7 minutes. You can use a gauze pad, clean cloth or paper towels to do this. Minor wounds can be gently cleansed with soap and water and/or covered with a clean dressing. Pulsating, forceful bleeding indicates perforation of an artery and requires direct pressure over the area of bleeding while transporting the pet for immediate veterinary attention.

 
FRACTURES. Broken bones need immediate veterinary attention.

 
TRANSPORTING INJURED ANIMALS. Injured animals are likely to be in pain. Small dogs should be transported in a suitable pet carrier, while larger dogs can be placed on a stretcher made from a bed sheet if they are not able to walk. Keep animals warm and as comfortable as you can while you are transporting them to your veterinarian or nearest emergency veterinary facility.

 
BE CAREFUL. No matter how gentle animals are, pain can cause them to bite. Measures should be taken to limit the risk of being bitten. Being a well-informed pet owner is always a good way to protect your pet’s health and well-being. Keeping a pet first-aid kit in your house and/or vehicle may help you be prepared in emergency situations.

 
Knowing what to do in an emergency is an important and can make a big difference in the outcome and speed your pet’s recovery.

DON’T FORGET. Microchip your dog and always keep your contact information updated. This way
if your dog is ever lost, you can quickly be contacted and reunited with your dog.

Dr. Revoir’s veterinary opinion should only be used as an educational guide and in no way should be substituted for licensed veterinary care. Your veterinarian should be consulted in all health matters involving your pet.