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Pets are members of the family who we care deeply about and whose well-being depends on us.

In an emergency, knowing how to provide proper first aid for your pet can be the difference between life and death. It’s the same for humans, of course; something like swallowing nicotine pouches can be potentially fatal to a human (especially a child), but you can 100% count on something like that to be deadly for a pet. Now, pets are known for getting into trash, eating what they’re not supposed to, and other life-threatening (and stressful) accidents. 

In this article, we will discuss essential skills every pet owner should have in their toolkit, which can save the life of their furry friend in a critical

Recognizing an Emergency Situation

The first step in providing first aid is to recognize when your pet is in distress. Some common signs include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures or tremors
• Excessive bleeding
• Unconsciousness or an inability to stand
• Signs of severe pain, such as whining, trembling, or a refusal to move

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to act quickly and calmly. Remember that your pet can sense your anxiety, so try to remain composed.

(Image from Deposit Photos)

The ABCs of Pet First Aid: Airway, Breathing, and Circulation

When faced with a pet emergency, start by following the ABCs of first aid by speaking to a veterinarian. Give ortinganimalhospital.com a call today.

Airway: Ensure your pet's airway is clear by gently opening its mouth and checking for any obstructions. If you find an object lodged in their throat, carefully remove it using tweezers or your fingers.

Breathing: Check your pet's breathing by placing your hand on their chest or observing the rise and fall of their sides. If your pet isn't breathing, you may need to perform rescue breaths or CPR.

Circulation: Assess your pet's circulation by checking their gums. Press on their gums gently; they should turn white momentarily and then return to their normal pink color within two seconds. If the color does not return quickly, it's an indication of poor circulation, which could be a sign of shock or internal bleeding.

Handling Common Pet Emergencies

Knowing how to handle specific emergencies is crucial for pet owners. Here are some common situations and what to do:

Wounds and bleeding: Apply direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or gauze. If the bleeding is severe and doesn't stop, seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Poisoning: If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic substance, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Don't make them vomit unless told to.

Choking: If your pet is choking, attempt to remove the object carefully from its mouth. If unsuccessful, perform the Heimlich maneuver or seek professional help immediately.

Seizures: During a seizure, keep your pet away from objects that might cause injury. Do not try to restrain them or place anything in their mouth. Once the seizure is over, keep your pet warm and calm, and contact your veterinarian.

Creating a Pet First Aid Kit

Having a well-stocked pet first aid kit can be a lifesaver. Consider including the following items:

Gauze and bandages

Tweezers

Scissors

Digital thermometer

Sterile saline solution

Hydrogen peroxide

Blanket or towel

Emergency contact information (veterinarian, poison control, etc.)

Learning from the Professionals

While this article provides a basic overview of pet first aid, it's essential to seek professional training. Many organizations, such as the Red Cross, offer pet first aid courses that teach you how to handle various emergencies.