As pet owners, it’s crucial to equip ourselves with the necessary knowledge of common pet first aid procedures. Your furry companions rely on you for their well-being, especially in times of distress. By familiarizing yourself with these essential first-aid tips and tricks, you’ll be better equipped to handle any unforeseen emergencies that may arise.
Here, we provide valuable insights on keeping your beloved pet safe in an emergency.
Common Pet Health Hazards
Pets live rambunctious, fun-filled lives that are fully immersed in the present. This is part of why they make such great companions, but it can also inadvertently put them in harm’s way. By understanding the common ways your pet can be injured or hurt, you can be better prepared to react if you need to assist them.
Choking – One of the most common pet health hazards is the risk of choking. Most pets are curious creatures eager to chew on anything and everything, and some are prone to eating too quickly. Choking can pose a serious hazard if your pet gets ahold of a small child’s toy or is simply eating a meal too quickly.
With a partial obstruction, your pet may show signs of distress by pawing at their mouth, retching, and pacing around. If your pet’s airway is completely obstructed, they will most likely remain quiet and quickly pass out. Inspect your pet’s mouth to see if the obstruction can be removed without causing further injury. With cats and small dogs, you can lift them by their thighs and gently swing them in the air from side to side to dislodge the object. With larger dogs, you can do a modified Heimlich maneuver.
Poisoning – Another consequence of a pet’s curious stomach is poisoning. Several common human food items are toxic to animals and can seriously threaten their health. If you suspect your pet has been poisoned, immediately call the Animal Poison Control hotline at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680 for immediate guidance. If possible, collect any items that you believe your dog ingested and bring them with you when you visit your vet.
Vehicle Hazards – Cars pose a serious threat to pets who venture outside. If your pet has been hit by a car, you’ll need to seek immediate veterinary care; even if your pet appears to be okay, it’s crucial to get them to a vet as soon as possible for a thorough examination. Animals in pain are more likely to bite, even if they have no history of biting and are being handled by their owner. Unless your pet is vomiting, consider muzzling them for your safety. Try to avoid moving the animal as much as possible during transport – we recommend wrapping them in a towel or blanket to keep them warm and provide stability.
Overheating – In hot states like Florida, heatstroke is likely. Signs of heatstroke include excessive drooling, confusion, heavy panting, drowsiness, diarrhea, or vomiting. It’s essential to immediately begin cooling your pet off by moving them into the shade or indoors, fanning them, and putting wet towels dampened with room-temperature water on their neck, armpits, or groin areas. Avoid submerging your pet in cool or cold water, which can worsen their condition.
Seizures – If your pet is experiencing a seizure, it’s important to react quickly. Do not try to startle the animal out of the seizure or restrain them, as that can cause more harm. Instead, protect your pet from nearby furniture or obstacles by moving those items out of the way when possible. Time the seizure duration; when it ends, keep your pet warm, quiet, and calm while you contact a trusted veterinarian.
Some incidents are more likely to occur when your pet is unsupervised for long periods, so take the proper precautions when leaving your pet alone and not leave them alone for too long.
First Aid Kit Essentials
Part of keeping your pet safe means being mentally and physically prepared for any situation. Now that you know how to react to various health emergencies, it’s important to have the proper supplies to care for your pet’s health.
The following items should be included in a pet first aid kit for your home or car:
- Phone numbers for your vet, your emergency animal hospital, poison control, animal control, and the non-emergency police in your area
- A copy of your pet’s medical records
- Muzzle (do not use if your pet is vomiting)
- Spare leash and collar
- Towel or blanket
- Digital thermometer
- Gauze rolls
- Tape for securing bandages
- Tweezers
- A small flashlight
- Gloves
- Saline solution for cleaning wounds or flushing eyes
- Activated charcoal for absorbing poison (only use when directed by the poison control hotline or your veterinarian)
- 3% hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting (only use when directed by the poison control hotline of your veterinarian)
Additionally, you’ll want to have a relationship with a trusted Jacksonville veterinarian who understands your pet’s medical history. Our Jacksonville Community Vet Clinics team can recommend additional items to include in your first aid kit based on your pet’s health needs.
Your Pet’s Safety is Our Priority
No matter the issue, we are committed to doing what we can to ensure your pet lives a happy and healthy life. With our knowledgeable team of experienced staff, Jacksonville Community Pet Clinics is available for you and your pet for a routine wellness check or a severe health issue. From heart health to accidental injuries and everything in between, we’re here for you and your beloved pet.
