Every loving pet owner needs to know the first and essential things to do when their favorite little buddies are hurt or unwell. Sure, you have your vet just a call or a few minute’s drive away, but being able to offer the right first aid at home can make a huge difference. Plus, what will you do if your vet is not available? Are you ready to care for your pet in case of an emergency? Do you know how to? Here are some pet first aid tips you should know.
1. Have a pet first aid kit
The first thing you need to do is invest in a first aid kit for your pet. Sure, you may have some items already available in your usual first aid kit, but it’s best to have a separate one specially made for your pet. That will come in handy during an emergency when every second counts. So, what should you have in your pet’s first aid kit? Here are a few essentials you should have:
- Emergency contact numbers, medical records, and vaccination paperwork
- Antibiotic ointment
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Rubber gloves, tapes, scissors, gauze
- Towel or blanket
- Grooming wipes
- A comfort item or toy
You also need to have some medications based on your pet’s health history. For example, if your dog is battling Cushing’s disease, you should have natural Cushings treatment for dogs as part of your first aid items. The same applies to other ailments.
2. Learn some basic first aid procedures
Depending on the pet you have, take the time to learn the basic first aid procedures for relieving them from choking, heatstroke, shock, burns, bleeding, broken bones, seizures, poisoning, and other unexpected hazards. You also need to learn how to identify the symptoms of tell-tales of each emergency to administer the right first aid. Thankfully, you will find all the info you need online regarding first aid procedures for specific animal species. Or, you can also speak with your vet to know what to do if your pet has a history of recurring health issues. That is the best way to prepare you for the unexpected.
3. Know how to handle an injured pet
Another thing worth knowing is how to cater to an injured pet without worsening its condition. Knowing this is essential when administering first aid, as it will help reduce your pet’s anxiety and keep those around safe. Again, the right way to handle a hurting pet will depend on the type of pet you have, so you need to take the time to learn.
4. Take first aid lessons
Perhaps one of the most important first aid steps you can take is signing up for first aid lessons. It is easy to read about what you need to do but forget everything when confronted with an actual emergency. Taking practical first aid lessons will give you the physical experience you require, as you will act out what you read about. But it would be best if you also practiced as often as you can to ensure you have every first aid routine at your fingertips.
