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Pet First Aid: Things You Need to Know 

June 10, 2022

Your aussiepoo breeders in Ontario will stress the necessity of being prepared for everything as a pet owner. Take the time to learn how to offer emergency first aid to your beloved pet.

There are four main rules of animal first aid: checking for danger, calling for help, controlling bleeding, and covering and protecting the wound. 

Following these four easy rules can help save your pet's life in an emergency.

You must know where your veterinarian is and keep their phone number handy. In an emergency, you'll be able to get in touch with them quickly. 

Learn how to check your pet's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, and respiration. Be prepared to give CPR if necessary.

You must also be aware of the symptoms of common pet emergencies, such as heat stroke, poisoning, and seizures. Knowing the signs and symptoms of these and other emergencies will help you act quickly if your pet is ever in distress. 

Aussiepoo breeders in Ontario suggest an emergency pet kit should include the following items:

  • Vaccination and medical records, as well as emergency contact numbers
  • Hydrogen peroxide, antibiotic ointment, gauze, scissors, tape, and rubber/latex gloves
  • Wet wipes, paper towels, a towel or blanket, collapsible travel food, and water bowls
  • Pedialyte, bottled water and small packages of food or treats, medications, and a comfort item
  • An extra leash, collar, and poop bags, as well as a flashlight and a guidebook for pet first aid

A dog or cat first aid kit should include bandages, gauze, tape, scissors, a muzzle, hydrogen peroxide, and latex gloves. It's also important to ensure the kit is tailored to your pet. By taking the time to prepare for anything, you can help keep your pet safe in an emergency.

A quality pet first aid kit for pets should include these supplies, but it's also important to make sure the kit is tailored to your specific pet – for example, if you have a dog or cat.

Here are some FAQs as an additional source of information:

What are some common pet emergencies?

Some common pet emergencies include heat stroke, poisoning, and seizures. Knowing the signs and symptoms of these and other emergencies will help you act quickly if your pet is ever in distress.

How do I perform CPR on my pet?

CPR can be lifesaving for both dogs and cats. If you're not comfortable giving CPR, consider taking a pet first aid class to be prepared in an emergency. 

Here are the steps to take when giving your pet CPR.

  1. Place your mouth over the airway.

Covering a small dog's nose and mouth when performing CPR is important to ensure that the airway is clear. You should cover the nose and use one hand to hold the mouth and jaw closed while giving rescue breaths for a larger dog. This will block air from escaping through the dog's mouth.

  1. Perform artificial respiration.

To perform artificial respiration on a dog, you will need to blow air into their nose and mouth so that their chest rises. Once you have done this, release your lips so the air can escape. You should aim for around 20-30 breaths per minute.

  1. Begin chest compressions.

Start chest compressions by placing your hand over the heart at the intercostal space. Compress the chest at about one-third to one-half its usual depth, aiming for 10 – 12 compressions over five seconds. 

Repeat these steps at a ratio of one breath to 10 – 12 compressions. Have someone else take over after two minutes since you will be doing more than 100 compressions per minute.

  1. Compress the abdomen in large breeds.

If you are performing CPR on a large breed, gently compress the front of the belly or squeeze the dog's abdomen. This can help circulate blood back to the heart. 

However, rescue breathing and chest compressions are more important. Abdominal compressions should be a secondary focus.

  1. Assess the dog.

Check periodically to see if the dog has started breathing again – about every two minutes. Unless resuscitation equipment is available, proceed with artificial respiration until help arrives.

How do I treat a Rattlesnake bite?

If a Rattlesnake bites your Aussiepoo, you'll want to call your vet or Aussiepoo breeders in Ontario immediately. You may also need to administer first aid until you get them to the vet. You can apply a tourniquet, use ice packs, and give CPR if necessary.

If you come across a bite wound, it is important to rinse the wound with water to eliminate some venom. Keep the wound below the heart and keep your pet still and calm to prevent the venom from spreading.

If your pet stops breathing, call your nearest veterinary clinic for instructions on how to perform CPR. Stay calm throughout the situation.

What to do if your pet is choking

Choking is a common emergency for pets. Be sure you perform the Heimlich maneuver on both dogs and cats.

If a dog is not breathing due to an obstructed airway, you may need to perform a modified version of the Heimlich maneuver. 

To remove an obstruction manually, be careful not to lodge the object further down in the dog's throat. A different approach will be required if the blockage is out of reach.

To perform the Heimlich maneuver on a dog, you must place your hands on either side of the dog's rib cage or chest area and apply firm pressure. 

Once the object is removed, check if the dog is still breathing. If the dog is not breathing, you will need to move forward with CPR.

What is the ideal way to keep my pet first aid kit organized and up-to-date?

The best way to keep your pet first aid kit organized and up-to-date is to create a list of supplies you need and check it off. This will help make sure you have everything you need in an emergency.

When is the ideal time to take my pet to the vet after an injury or illness?

It's always wise to call and consult with your veterinarian after an injury or illness, even if you're providing first aid at home. Your vet can advise you about the course of action and whether or not additional treatment is necessary.

What are some common household hazards that can be poisonous to pets?

Common household hazards that can be poisonous to pets include chocolate, caffeine, medications, and plants. Keep these and other harmful items out of your pet's reach.

What should I do if my pet eats something poisonous?

If your pet eats something poisonous, you'll want to call your veterinarian immediately. You may also need to administer first aid until you get them to the vet.

Common houseplants poisonous to puppies include lilies, azaleas, and rhododendrons. Keep these and other harmful plants out of your pet's reach.

There are also several human foods dogs shouldn't eat, such as chocolate, caffeine, and grapes. Be sure to keep these items out of reach of your pet.

What should I do if my pet has a seizure from flea and tick medication?

You'll want to call your veterinarian immediately if your pet has a seizure from medications. Seizures usually only last for a few minutes, so you can apply a cold pack to their head, ensure they're in a safe place where they won't fall and hurt themselves, and clear their airway if necessary. Reputable Aussiepoo breeders in Ontario believe that seizures are preventable by using natural ways of controlling fleas and ticks.  

Is there anything else I need to know about pet first aid?

If you're not confident about what to do in an emergency, don't hesitate to call your vet or the Animal Poison Control Center. They'll be able to help you out and advise you on the best course of action.

These are only some things you need to know about pet first aid. Talk to your veterinarian or take a pet first aid class for more information. With a little preparation, you can rest assured knowing you're ready for anything.

That's why reputable Aussiepoo breeders in Ontario like Select Kennels, write about topics like pet first aid, so you can be informed and ready for anything. At Select Kennels, we want you to be as prepared as possible regarding the health of your Mini Australian Shepherd - Ontario. Be sure to check out our blog for more helpful articles!

Contact us today to learn more!

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