First Aid Basics for Pet Emergencies

Building a Pet First Aid Kit

Keep these items handy: gauze, bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, digital thermometer, saline solution, emergency vet contact.

Handling Wounds

Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze. Clean with saline solution, not hydrogen peroxide.

Choking

Check the mouth for obstructions. For small pets, hold upside down and pat firmly between shoulder blades.

Poisoning

Call your vet or poison control immediately. Note what was ingested and how much.

Heat Stroke

Move to cool area, apply cool (not cold) water, offer small amounts of water to drink.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, suspected poisoning, severe trauma.