Pet First Aid Advice Contents

Cat

We understand when your pet gets hurt it is very worrying and stressful, especially if you don't know what to do.

With the right knowledge and tools we believe anyone can help their pet in an emergency situation.

Our goal is to give you the confidence to care for your furry friend when the need arrives, whether it's a minor cut or graze, or a more serious emergency prior to travelling to your vets.

Treating injuries as soon as possible results in best outcomes.

The information on this website is for your reference only and DOES NOT replace your veterinary surgeon, who should always be contacted if you are worried about your pet.

Dog
SAFETY FIRST
  • When faced with an emergency situation with your pet always check the situation is safe for you and any other humans around before proceeding to help your pet. You can't help them if you get hurt.
  • If at any point you are concerned for your safety please get help before approaching a sick or injured animal.
  • Warning if your pet is hurt or stressed, they may bite or scratch even when they wouldn’t normally, so take care and always keep your face away from their mouth. It might be a good idea to muzzle
    • dogs before examining injuries (unless they are overheating, choking or vomiting) and with cats gently cover them with a towel or blanket, ensuring they can still easily breathe.
  • For more information on how to safely handle your pet in emergency situations and approach sick and injured pet, please click here.
  • If you are bitten seek immediate medical attention
BE PREPARED
  • I know there's a lot of information on this site but try and get familiar with the basics. Practice checking where your pet's pulse is, get used to what their normal breathing effort and gum colour is and get them used to being handled.
  • Have a first aid kit ready to go.
  • Keep calm - always remain calm in an emergency situation, don't shout or panic as this will stress your pet out more, and avoid sudden movements.
GET PERMISSION
  • Always get permission before performing first aid on someone's pet.
DISCLAIMERS
Call Your Vet
  • The information on this website is for your reference only and DOES NOT replace your veterinary surgeon, who should always be contacted if you are worried about your pet.
  • Keep first aid kits away from animals and children.
  • Never put yourself or anyone else in danger when administering first aid.
  • If you are bitten seek immediate medical attention.
  • Use this kit and these instructions at your own risk; Charlie The Vet Ltd will not accept liability or responsibility for incorrect use of your first aid kit and these instructions.
REFERENCES
  • These instructions are written by Dr Charlie Astle, BaHons, MA, BVSc MRCVS, a practicing veterinary surgeon.
  • Content conforms to the RECOVER Guidelines for veterinary CPR (for the parts that can be done prior to getting to your vet).