First aid for pets is not a substitute for veterinary care.

Never put your pet's life at risk, don't delay in calling us.

 

Here is some basic information on pet first aid that may help you while you wait for veterinary attention. It is a good idea to pet first aid kit in the house. 

 

Bleeding from a wound

Cuts and abrasions  Flush the wound with a little salt dissolved in tepid water until all dirt has been removed. Apply a dressing or wrap a bandage around the wound to protect it.

Bite wounds  Similar to cut wounds, flush the area with a little salt dissolved in tepid water. Bite wounds will often become infected so will require antibiotic treatment.

Larger wounds  Keep the animal as quiet and still as possible and apply pressure to the wound to help stop blood being lost and bandage using a clean towel, piece of clothing or bandage material. The bandage should be firm but not too tight. Do not try to remove any foreign object from the wound. If it is sticking out from the wound, pad around it gently to stop it moving around. Don't give food or water as your pet may need a general anaesthetic to repair the wound and this requires an empty stomach.

 

Breathing

Make sure you pet can breathe, if necessary open up your pet's airway by pulling its tongue forward out of the mouth until it is flat. Check the throat to see if there are any objects blocking the airway.

Choking

Try to open the mouth and look for the object that may be blocking the airway. Be careful as a choking pet might bite in panic. If you see an object, gently try to remove it with pliers or tweezers but be careful not to push the object further down the throat.

Heat stroke 

Move your pet to a shaded area. Place a cool wet towel around their neck and use a hose or pour cool water over them. Never leave your pet in the car on warm days. The temperature inside a car can rise very quickly to dangerous levels, even on milder days.

 

Poisoning  

Try to determine what and how much your pet swallowed. Here are some examples of substances that are toxic to pets if ingested.

Chocolate (especially dark chocolate) / raisins / onions

Ibuprofen / paracetamol

Anti freeze / rat poison / slug pellets

Lillies / holly, yew and mistletoe berries

 

Seizures

Make sure your pet is not near any objects that may harm them. Don't touch the face or mouth, many pets having a seizure may bite without meaning to. Remove any bright lights or loud noises from the vicinity. After the seizure has passed keep your pet warm and quiet.

 

Shock 

This is a potentially life-threatening condition, which occurs as a result of a serious injury or illness. Shock can occur due to

1  bleeding - internal or external

2  decreased blood pressure - due to pain, infection, poisoning etc

3   fluid loss - fluids lost from the body through vomiting and diarrhoea for example, causing dehydration and loss of blood volume

 

Examine the gums by lifting the upper lip. If the gums are pale or white, your pet needs urgent veterinary attention. Other signs of shock include, cold paws and ears, rapid breathing, rapid heart rate. To manage shock:

1  Stop any visible signs of bleeding (see Bleeding above)

2  If the pet is unconscious, place it on its side with the head and neck extended.

3  Keep the animal still and warm with blankets.

4  Do not give any food or water.