April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month. Should your pet be injured, it is a good idea to see a veterinarian — but in case you are in a remote area, out camping or enjoying the outdoors, it is a good idea to be prepared to handle basic first aid issues for your pet and to know how to do so without causing further injury to your pet or yourself.
Prevention is the best option regarding first aid. Be as aware as possible of the surroundings your pet has access to, and ensure there are no toxic materials or hazards in the vicinity. Some common concerns that may be preventable include:
- Choking – remove hazards when your pet is alone (bones, small toys, and similar items)
- Accidental poisoning – keep medications, toxic plants and similar hazards out of reach
- Trauma – falls, tripping, entrapment
- Lacerations – keep sharp objects out of your pet's environment and keep furniture in good condition
Of course, not all injuries can be predicted and prevented. Having a stocked first aid kit is helpful in situations where minor first aid may be needed. Some good supplies to have in your pet first aid kit include:
- Medical tape
- Gauze
- Gauze sponges, cast padding and self-adherent wrap
- Non-stick (Telfa) pads
- Triple antibiotic ointment
- Disinfectant and flush solution
- Tweezers, for tick and splinter removal
- Thermometer
- Bandage scissors
- Exam gloves for you
- Syringes, for flushing wounds or administering liquids
- Anti-diarrhea medication and antihistamine medication (be sure to know proper use and dosing)
- Leash and a muzzle that fits your pet — animals may be unpredictable when injured, and you do not want to lose them or get bitten
- Collapsible water and food dish
Should you need to apply a bandage to your pet, be very careful not to wrap it too tightly; tight bandages can cause further damage to tissues. Be sure to maintain your first aid kit: restock as needed and check expiration dates for solutions and medications. Be familiar with what is in your kit and know how to use it. Animal body temperatures are different from people's, so a list of normal vital signs is a good thing to keep in your kit so you don't have to remember them (body temperature, heart rate, respiration rate, and so on). Your veterinarian can provide you with the information that you would find helpful in your kit.
For dire emergencies that require CPR or more advanced care, please take a pet first aid class. Look in your area for a local class, or at minimum search online. For bleeding, apply pressure and bandage if possible. Broken bones may need to be splinted or immobilized before your pet can be moved. If your pet is not breathing, check the airway for blockage, then start CPR if you have been trained. It is key to remain calm in these situations — your pet will be scared and will need you to be calm and confident. In these types of situations, take your pet to a local veterinary emergency clinic as quickly as possible.
Finally, be sure to call your veterinarian or schedule an appointment if you have any questions regarding injury to your pet. Small injuries can get infected and require further treatment; broken toenails are notorious for getting infected and causing pain. Eye injuries are always serious and should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Prevent injuries when you can, or be prepared for them when you are out having fun. Take care of your pet, and tell a friend about National Pet First Aid Awareness Month!