It is essential as a pet owner to know what to do in an emergency, as it could save your pet’s life. In an emergency situation we would always recommend calling us - emergencies come in many forms and, in these situations, you will usually need to bring your pet to the practice without delay so we can do what is needed.

Some examples of when you must get your pet to us without delay include any breathing difficulties, repeated vomiting, if your pet appears in severe pain, any signs they are struggling to urinate, and any pregnant or lactating pets that appear to be having difficulties. Whilst calling us is the first thing that you should do in an emergency, there are some instances where you can start basic first aid whilst contacting us.

This week’s article provides some advice and tips to help you to respond and stay calm in an emergency situation, including what you need to make a basic first aid kit for your pet.

Road traffic accidents

These are very scary when they happen. Firstly you need to ensure your own safety, as well as the safety of others. Keep calm and assess the situation, injured animals are frightened and can be in pain and in these instances they may bite. Ring ahead and transport your pet to us immediately so they can be fully assessed.

You can create a stretcher for large dogs with blankets or a coat and try to keep your pet as still as possible to avoid disturbing any injury. They will be in shock, so cover them with a blanket to keep them warm. If you notice any blood then apply firm pressure to the wound or, if possible and you are able to do so, you may apply a light dressing to the wound.

Burns and scalds

If this has happened to your pet, run cold water over the affected areas for at least 5 minutes whilst contacting us. Do not apply any creams to the area. Whilst transporting your pet to us, you can apply a clean wet towel over the area.

Poisons

Our pets are curious and often explore the world by eating things they shouldn’t! The more information you can give us the easier we can fully assess your pet and treat them appropriately. Bring any packages you have and get them to us as soon as possible so we can start the appropriate treatment. Please don’t ever try and make your pet sick at home as some substances are caustic and this can be very dangerous.

Swollen tummy

This is particularly important in deep chested dogs, such as Boxers or German Shepherds. In these instances, your dog’s tummy appears to distend very quickly and it can be a sign of a GDV (Gastric Dilation Volvulus). Your pet may also show signs of unproductive vomiting/gulping. The only thing you can do at home is get your pet to us immediately - time is of the essence.

Fits/Seizures

These can be very scary as a pet owner. The key things for you to do at home include turning the lights off and placing a blanket or pillow underneath your pet’s head. You can sit and talk quietly to your pet whilst phoning us for further advice.

Fights

These are hopefully not a common occurrence, but they do happen! First things first, clean and assess the wound. Most fight wounds will require further treatment such as anti-inflammatories or antibiotics, which we can prescribe following evaluation of your pet.

Eye injuries

Eye injuries are emergencies - after all, we only get one pair! If your pet’s eye is bulging from the socket apply a clean wet dressing to the area to prevent further trauma and make your way to us immediately. If any chemicals have entered your pet’s eye then apply copious amounts of clean water. A common saying in the veterinary profession is ‘dilution is the solution to the pollution’. In all eye injuries please ring us.

Heat Stroke

This can affect any dog. However, short nosed (Brachycephalic) dogs, such as Pugs, or overweight dogs are at an increased risk. Prevention is better than cure. Avoid taking your pet out during the heat of the day and never leave your pet in a car.

If you cannot put your hand on tarmac without discomfort for five seconds you shouldn’t walk your dog, as you can burn their pads. Signs of heat stroke include heavy and fast panting, excessive thirst, dark or purple gums, staggering or weakness and even seizures. If you are concerned then ring us, but start actively cooling your pet with tepid water (cold water can cause shock), move them to a shaded spot, and even use fans.

Adder Bites

If you are keen walkers then you are likely already be aware of Adders. Adders (our only native venomous snake) are most active between April and July, especially in the afternoon. Puppies and inquisitive dogs can provoke adders into biting. Adder bites can result in swelling around the wound, often within 2 hours. You can often see puncture wounds in the centre. Other signs can include pain, bleeding, lameness and bruising.

If the adder venom spreads it results in a widespread inflammatory reaction resulting in fever, lethargy, increased heart and respiratory rates, vomiting, and wobbly movements. In severe cases your pet may collapse, have blood clotting problems, and even multi-organ failure, which can be fatal. The severity of signs and speed of recovery depends on a number of factors. As always, try not to panic and contact us immediately. Carry your dog back to your car (the less your pet moves the slower the venom spreads) and apply cold water to the wound to reduce swelling. Once your pet arrives at the practice they will likely be admitted for further treatment.

First Aid Kits for your pet

To ensure you are prepared for any emergencies, it is a good idea to keep a First Aid Kit for your pet. Some examples of contents for your pet’s First Aid Kit include:

• Bandages

• Non adhesive dressings

• Cotton wool

• Blunt ended scissors

• Wound wash - Saline

• Gloves

• Foil blanket

• Tick removers

• Large towel/blanket

We hope you have found this article informative and your pet stays safe, but we also appreciate that accidents can happen so, as always, we are only a phone call away on 01665 252250 for advice or to respond in an emergency situation.

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