Learn basic first aid tips for pets by top vets

Pet Emergencies come unexpectedly at any time and place, pet owners need to know what to do if their pet gets hurt. The moments right after energy can be a make-or-break situation for an injury or health condition. Some injuries require immediate help whilst others can be taken care of with first aid.

Why Is It Important To Know Pet First Aid?

  • Knowing pet first aid can make a life or death difference for your pet in the face of an injury or accident. Most people lose their pets due to negligence or simply not knowing what to do until the pet gets professional help. Hence it is important to know basic first aid.

Important First Aid Tips

Checking For A Pulse

  • If your pet has fainted or isn’t responding, you may have to check for its pulse. The upper hind thigh is a great place to check for the pulse of many household pets. Simply put your hand on the underside of the thigh, just under the leg, and feel the major artery pulsating.  Count the pulse for 15 seconds and multiply it by 4 to get a heartbeat.

Preventing A Pet From Choking

  • Choking is very common in household pets, especially dogs that eat their food in a hurry or chew on small objects. You might have to forcibly dislodge whatever is restricting your pet’s airway. Grip your pet’s tongue and pull it outwards to see what’s stuck inside. Try removing it with your hands if possible, or get immediate help.

What To Do For a Fracture

  • Fractures and sprains are easy to spot. Your pet will actively try putting weight on that bone or using it. They may try and retract the leg instead of stretching it out. You would have to carry your pet on a stretcher and it is best to muzzle it. If the injury is obvious you can try to make a homemade splint.

Addressing External Bleeding

  • Pets bleed all the time. However, differentiating bleeding from blood loss is a very important skill. You must be able to know how deep certain wounds are and if they need treatment simply by looking at them. Wrap the wound and stop the bleeding as soon as possible. This will help buy you more time as you take the pet to the vet.

Choosing The Right Medication

  • first aid tips for petsMedication is important to help pets that are showing different symptoms. Certain medications are good for cats but may be dangerous for dogs. The first thing to take into consideration is that human medicines should not be given to pets unless advised by the vet. Common medicines like Advil, Tylenol, and Aspirin cannot be given to pets.

When To Take A Dog To The Vet

Knowing when to take your dog is almost as important as knowing basic first aid. Here are some signs that indicate your pet needs immediate medical attention:

  • Your pet is not breathing or moving
  • They are being unusually unresponsive
  • Your pet is having a seizure or fit
  • You feel as if they have broken bones
  • They are howling in pain
  • Have been vomiting or having diarrhea

At Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center, we provide you with the best urgent care for your pet that saves their lives. We offer multiple veterinary services in the city of Charlottesville, VA. To book an appointment or get an inquiry contact us on our number 434-971-9800.