Most pets are naturally curious, but some are downright mischievous, which can sometimes put them in harm’s way. Administering first aid can help stabilize an injured pet until they receive veterinary care and increase the chances of a positive treatment outcome. The Stanton Pet Hospital team provides essential tips for handling common pet emergencies, ensuring you can jump into action to help your pet when they need it most.

1: Assemble a pet first aid kit

Having basic first aid supplies at home or with you on the go ensures you can care for your pet’s injuries or wounds, such as lacerations, torn nails, or eye irritation. A comprehensive first aid kit contains a long list of items, including bandages, gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, scissors, tweezers, saline, and more. Keep the kit with you and check regularly to ensure the products have not expired and the kit is sufficiently stocked.

2: Learn to assess your pet’s vitals

The next time you see us checking your pet’s vitals, ask for a quick crash course. Pet owners can learn to check pulse rate, breathing rate, gum color, and temperature at home, which can be helpful information if your pet becomes suddenly ill. Try taking these assessments at home when your pet is well to establish a baseline for future comparison.

3: Stay calm in a pet emergency

You likely panic when you see your pet injured or distressed, but staying calm will help you objectively assess the situation and decide what to do. Also, keeping your cool and approaching your pet slowly and carefully will help them stay calm and prevent further injury.

4: Call for help for your pet

Keep contact numbers for our veterinary team, the local emergency clinic, and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center in your phone, so you can reach out for guidance in administering pet first aid. You may also need to call a friend, family member, or neighbor to help transport your pet for veterinary care. 

5: Take a pet first aid class

The Red Cross offers online pet first aid courses that guide pet owners through basic skills. Taking a course can build your confidence and provide a solid knowledge base that you can tap into quickly when an emergency occurs.

6: Stabilize your pet 

When your pet is injured, you must first stabilize their condition. In most cases, this requires that you assess basic vitals and address any immediate threat to their life. A few examples of how to stabilize your pet in a common emergency before seeking immediate veterinary care include:

  • Control bleeding — Apply direct pressure to wounds using a clean cloth or bandage and elevate the area to prevent further blood loss, if possible.
  • Wound care — Flush wounds with saline solution or diluted soap and water and follow up with a light bandage.
  • Clear airways — If your pet is choking, carefully open their mouth and gently remove visible obstructions. 
  • Cool overheated pets — Heatstroke can strike quickly and damage the brain and organs in minutes. If you suspect heatstroke in your pet, cover them in cool, wet towels and transport them for veterinary care in an air-conditioned vehicle.

7: Transport injured pets with care

Getting pets safely out of harm’s way and into our veterinary hospital or the nearest emergency facility can be challenging. You may need more than one person to move a large pet or to sit with the pet during transport. Always move pets carefully, as they may bite out of pain, fear, or stress. Avoid placing pressure on injuries while lifting a pet—using a wide towel or blanket as a stretcher may be helpful.

Following our essential pet first aid tips can help you remain calm and take swift action in an emergency. Once you’ve stabilized your pet, call the Stanton Pet Hospital team or the nearest veterinary emergency facility for further assistance. To learn more about handling common pet injuries and how to boost your pet’s health and resilience, contact us to schedule a routine wellness visit.