Emergency First Aid Tips for Pet Owners
Since emergencies don’t come with prior notice, the only way to handle them is to be prepared. One might think pets would require the same emergency care as humans. However, since animals are biologically different from us humans, there are different guidelines for emergency care. Here are some first aid tips for pet owners so that you’re prepared to properly handled emergencies at home before heading to the doctor.
Give Your Pets Space
If your pet is in distress, hurt or in pain, be sure to maintain a safe distance from them. Even the friendliest of animals tend to become aggressive when in pain and may bite anyone in close proximity. Keep a muzzle at home for such situations to minimize further injuries. If you do not have one, you can make one at home using a belt strap and tying it around your pet’s mouth.
Be Quick
Do not waste time deciding if you can treat the pet on your own. If you have even a slightest doubt about knowing what is wrong with your pet, call the doctor immediately. Quick thinking can be your biggest asset in such situations. Put vet’s number on speed dial.
What to Do If They are Vomiting or Experiencing Diarrhea
If your pet has been vomiting or has diarrhea, do not feed him for 24 hours except water. After 24 hours, start feeding them with light meals and see if their condition gets any better. If not, contact the doctor.
Do Not Self-Medicate
Often, people are tempted to treat their pet on their own by giving them medicines that they think are suitable or suggested by another pet owner. However, you never know which medicine might be toxic for your pet since every animal is different. Not every medicine will work. Some may cause harm.
Heat Stroke
Symptoms of heat stroke in animals may include bloody diarrhea, feebleness, excessive panting, vomiting, or excessive salvation. These can also be a sign of abnormally high body temperature. In extreme heat summer days, measure your pet’s temperature. If it is above 104oF take immediate precautionary measures. Do not put your pet in an ice bath in such condition; it will slow down the cooling process. Keep your pet in shady areas, where it is cool and they have access to water all the time. Contact your veterinarian.
Pet Wounds
If your pet is bitten or wounded, take them to a vet immediately to prevent infection. Have them checked for internal wounds. If your pet gets involved in a fight with another animal, never come in between them. Chances are you may be bitten too.
First Aid Emergency Kit
You should always keep an emergency first aid kit with you, especially if you are traveling. It should have gauze, plastic wraps, anti-septic, eye ointment, thermometer, tweezers and bandages. You never know what minor injury may happen.
Abnormal Behavior
If you notice your pet is not sleeping, eating or playing as it usually does get him checked to identify any underlying illness. Also, be aware if your animal is using the bathroom as they would normally. This too, can be a sign of abnormal behavior.
Short of your animal learning to speak, they cannot effectively communicate their problem. it is our responsibility as pet owners to remain attentive to any unusual behavior in our pets. Our watchful eye allows them to receive the care they need in a timely manner.
For More Information
If you have questions about raising a puppy or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC Pet Sitter. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com.