Pet first-aid: Lifesaving skills you must know
Pets are not just companions- they are an integral part of their owners’ lives, depending on food, shelter and care.
Accidents or sudden health complications can happen anytime, and owners must be prepared to face such situations. Every pet owner must know basic first-aid measures, which can come in handy anytime. Whether it’s a minor cut, bruise, fracture or unconsciousness, immediate first-aid can make the difference.
After providing first-aid to your pet, knowing where to find an UrgentVet after-hours emergency veterinarian near you can be crucial during critical situations. This article explores some of the essential lifesaving skills every pet owner should know to save their pet and prepare them for further treatment.
Recognizing an emergency
The most important part of growing a pet is recognizing when they are in a critical situation. Pets can’t express their pain in words, so we must be aware and identify their distress. Signs of distress that need immediate attention are difficulty breathing, excessive bleeding, seizures, sudden collapse, or an inability to stand.
Subtle signs like diarrhea, lethargy or unusual aggression also need to be looked into at the earliest. Being familiar with our pets’ behavior helps us make the right emergency decisions.
Handling wounds and bleeding
Open wounds and bruises caused during fights between pets need quick care and treatment. If left untreated, the wounds will get contaminated by germs, further worsening the pets’ health. Such open wounds must be adequately cleaned with pet-friendly antiseptics and covered with an ointment and a bandage.
If the wound is deep, keep the pet calm and take it to a vet nearby for treatment. Administering first-aid for minor wounds reduces pain and stress for pets, providing enough time for owners to make informed decisions about further treatment.
Responding to choking
Pets can choke on any household objects, like batteries, toys, stationeries or accessories. In such situations, the objects might block the throat and cause difficulty in breathing. If the choked object is visible, we can remove it by hand, but if it doesn’t help, the Heimlich maneuver helps, which involves providing a series of abdominal thrusts to force the object out. Owners must know this procedure to save their pets from choking on any objects any time.
Managing poisoning and toxic exposure
Pets are active and buzzy at all times, and this nature often causes trouble for owners. One such problem is pets consuming any toxic substance. Household items like rat killers, chocolate, paints, medicines and cleaning products can be fatal for pets if consumed. If we encounter such situations, the first thing to do before calling a vet is to identify the consumed substance. Calling a poison control hotline or a veterinarian is the right thing to do, as their guidance is the best approach.
Assisting a pet in electric shock
Pets getting an electric shock is a life-threatening condition that can be followed by trauma, poisoning, organ failure or severe illness. Symptoms of shock include a burnt appearance, unconsciousness and trauma. If pets encounter an electric shock, the first thing to do is turn off the power source.
Knowing how to perform CPR is crucial, and owners must learn this technique. CPR must be done immediately to the pet, and breathing must be checked. Then, they must be taken to a nearby vet for further treatment.
Handling seizures safely
Seizures are alarming sights to witness, but staying calm is important. Moving nearby objects away and ensuring our pet is in a safe space is the best immediate response. It’s crucial not to touch or go near the pet, as it can turn them aggressive and lead to accidental bites.
Note the duration of seizures, as episodes that last more than five minutes require immediate care. If the seizures end in a short time, comfort the pet and give them rest. If it continues, take them to a nearby veterinarian for further evaluation.
Preparing a pet first-aid kit
Finally, every pet owner should have a first-aid kit for their pet and know how to treat them in emergencies. A pet-friendly first-aid kit must contain a pet-friendly antiseptic, cotton, bandage, ointment, thermometer, scissors and a pet-friendly pain reliever recommended by a vet. Ensure that all products are not expired and in good working condition. This helps pet owners tackle any emergencies and save their pets from distress.
Pet owners should understand their pets’ behavior and know how to treat them during emergencies. By monitoring their movement, owners can sense trouble with their pets. Providing first-aid, keeping them in a safe space and performing lifesaving procedures keep the pet temporarily safe from danger. After initial treatment, they should be taken to an urgent vet nearby for further treatment. By following these procedures, owners can improve the chances of their pets’ recovery and keep them healthy for a long time.
