Tips to help your pet in case
of an emergency.
- Consider taking
a pet first aid class or buy a pet first aid care guide.
- Call
the vet ahead of time to let them know you are coming in with an
emergency
- Transport
injured pets in a large blanket. Besides keeping your pet warm,
they may be used as a stretcher if needed.
THE FOLLOWING EMERGENCY
SITUATIONS ARE NOTED BELOW:
|
Heatstroke |
Cuts
and Wounds |
Pet
Poisoning |
Shock |
Heatstroke
Heatstroke kills family pets every year because they are left in
cars on warm days. Look for signs of rapid breathing, panting or
collapse.
Heatstroke
/ What should you do?
- Remove your pet to
a shaded or cool area.
- Sponge or hose
your pet down with cool water (do not use ice).
- Encourage your pet
to drink small amounts of water.
- Contact your
veterinarian for further instructions.
|
Cuts and Wounds
Deep cuts and wounds are common in pets due to broken glass and
sharp objects.
If
your pet is bleeding:
- Apply firm,
continuous pressure directly over the bleeding site
using thick gauze pads or clean cloths to control
bleeding.
- If the area is
painful, you may need to muzzle or restrain your pet to
avoid bites.
- Transport your pet
immediately to the nearest emergency veterinarian
hospital or your veterinarian's office.
|
Pet Poisoning
Family pets risk all kinds of poisoning every day; things like
insecticides, weed killers, antifreeze, acids, fertilizers, paints
... the list is extensive.
If
your pet is poisoned:
- Keep your pet warm
and quiet.
- Try to determine
what the poison was, when it was ingested and the amount
swallowed.
- Immediately call
your veterinarian or your nearest poison control center.
- When you take your
pet to the vet, bring the label or container of poison
with you.
- Keep poisonous
materials properly stored and out of reach of pets.
- Keep emergency
numbers handy by the phone.
|
Shock
Shock is the result of an injury or disease to the body that
produces inadequate blood circulation. Pets in shock show signs of
weakness, grey gums, shallow breathing, a weak pulse and may
collapse.
If your
pet appears to have the above symptoms:
- Wrap your pet in a
blanket to keep him warm and comfortable.
- Transport your pet
to the nearest veterinary hospital or emergency clinic.
- First aid can be
attempted while on route to the hospital.
- Do not give your
pet any water or food.
- Keep the head
slightly lower than the body and the tongue extended to
keep the breathing path open.
|
Note:
In an emergency situation, there is no substitute for
proper
medical care administered by a
qualified veterinarian.
