First Aid for Pets

First AidIt is important to understand when you might need to provide first aid for the pets in our family and how.

1) Recognising emergency warning signs: If you pet shows any of the following signs, seek immediate veterinary advice. This list is however not all inclusive, any major changes to your pets behaviour warrant veterinary attention.

  • Abnormal heart rate
  • Collapse
  • Coughing, especially if persistent and severe
  • Difficulty breathing. Is your pet moving his abdomen to breath?
  • Dilated pupils
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Pain
  • Pale gums
  • Restlessness and panting
  • Unproductive retching
  • Vomiting

2) Stop, Assess, Act. In case of an emergency remain calm, assess your pet methodically and communicate clearly with your veterinarian.First Aid Kit

  • Safety first. Make sure it is safe for you to go to your pet and take precautions against being bitten or scratched as panicked pets often lash out in fear.
  • Check the ABCDs: Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability. Make sure your pets airway is clear, check for breathing and a heartbeat and then assess the degree of injury.
  • Administer first aid. Stop or control any bleeding, flush burns, immobilise broken limbs, etc
  • Call your vet and get to the hospital as fast as you safely can. Make sure to let your vet know what has happened clearly so they can prepare for your arrival.

3) The Vitals: Baseline Health Stats. You must first know what is normal in order to be able to determine if anything is abnormal.

  • Heart Rate: Small to Medium dogs 70-140 beats per minute

Large Dogs: 50-120 beats per minute
Cats: 140-200 beats per minute

  • Respiratory Rate: 15-30 breaths per minute for dogs and cats.

Finding a pets pulse
Finding a pets heart beat

Here is some information to help you keep your pets safe at home:

Poisons and Toxins

General

If you are worried about your pet’s health or would like to further discuss how you can manage first aid for your pets in your home call us now and you can talk to one of our trained staff at reception or make an appointment to see one of our veterinarians.

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