The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that all pet parents familiarize themselves with basic first aid for their pets. Your furry companion is an important part of your family. Knowing basic first aid for pet health problems can save your pet’s life. Here are the details that you must remember. 

Know Your Pet 

It is helpful to know if you know your pet very well. Changes in smell, appetite, and movement will let you know if there is something wrong with your pet. A high-energy pet can become lethargic after poisoning. An affectionate pet can become aloof after an injury. Catching these behaviors can signal you to check your pet’s vital signs or perform first aid until you get to the vet. Here are the basic first-aid practices for pets:

For Exposure to Toxins

Eating or drinking a poisonous substance is common in pets. Many products in your home are harmful to both people and pets. Antifreeze, cleaning products, and rat poisons are the most common causes of harm in pets. Some food items, such as onions, chocolate, and alcohol, are also toxic. Bring your pet and the toxic item to the vet right away. You can also call the poison control hotline. For both solutions, have the following information ready:

• Product packaging

• Number of pets involved

• Pet’s species, weight, age, breed, and sex

• Amount of substance ingested

• Length of time since your pet was exposed to or ingested it

For Shock

Your pet may manifest shallow breathing, dazed eyes, nervousness, and a weak pulse. This often follows extreme fright or severe injury. Keep your pet quiet, restrained, and warm. Keep the head level with the body if your pet is unconscious. Bring your pet to the vet right away. 

For Fractures

Muzzle your pet first. Place your pet on a flat surface as gently as possible. A stretcher (stiff board) is the ideal flat surface for transporting your pet to the vet. Secure your pet to the stretcher with a blanket or a throw rug. Securing the fractured area with a splint can help stabilize the injury until you arrive at the vet clinic.

For External Bleeding

Be prepared for a little fear from your furry companion. Muzzle your pet and press a thick piece of gauze over the wounded area. Do this for a few minutes and check if the blood has clotted. If the bleeding is severe, tie the limb off with a tourniquet. Then, bring your pet to your vet right away. 

For Internal Bleeding

Your pet may bleed from the nose and mouth. A rapid pulse, pale gums, and bleeding rectum can manifest. Your pet can also cough up blood. Keep your pet quiet and warm. Bring your pet to the vet right away. 

For Burns

If it is a chemical burn, muzzle your pet first. Flush the burn right away with plenty of water. If it is a severe burn, muzzle and calm your pet down. Then, apply an ice water compress to the affected area. 

Knowing the right type of first aid can help your pet regain health. It may also save your pet’s life. For more on first aid services for pets, visit Port Royal Veterinary Hospital in Port Royal, South Carolina. Call 843-379-7387 to schedule an appointment today.