Accidents can happen to anyone, including pets. In this blog, our Santa Clarita veterinarians will talk first aid if your pet encounters any issues.
First Aid For Pets
It is important to know how to handle a medical emergency so that you can stabilize your pet enough to get them to a vet.
First aid for pets is similar to first aid for a human. Use the "Dr. ABCs"
Danger – make sure the area can be secured from other hazards to keep yourself and others around you safe.
Response – Check if your pet responds to their name or touch.
Airway – is their airway clear?
Breathing – are they breathing?
Circulation – do they have a pulse or heartbeat?
Send – someone to ask for help!
CPR For Pets
The first concern is always whether they are breathing. Brain damage and death happen quickly if your pet is not breathing. For cats and dogs, the process is similar to the process on humans.
If there's no breathing, make sure the air passage is clear.
If they are not breathing, check the air passage is unobstructed.
If there is no heartbeat, start chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
Perform 30 compressions and give rescue breaths.
Close the pet's mouth and breathe through their nose.
Check every 2 minutes for a heartbeat/independent breathing.
Get your pet to the vet, and keep up CPR on route to the vet or until your pet is breathing on its own.
If your pet starts breathing on their own, you should still take them to the vet.
First Aid Kit For Pets
A pet first aid kit is not that different from a human first aid kit.
- Bandages
- Blunt-ended scissors
- Tweezers
- Wound dressing
- Self-adhesive tape
- Vinyl gloves
- Foil blanket
- Antiseptic wipes
- A blanket to use as a stretcher or to immobilize them.
Summary
Think of Dr. ABC's when doing CPR on pets. It's similar to CPR for humans, but remember to breathe through their nose; use your best judgment, and if you're unsure, contact our emergency vet clinic.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.