First Aid Tips for Dogs and Cats
We've compiled a simple list of first aid tips for animals to help you in case something terrible should happen to your pet.
Hooks or Objects with Barbs
Sometimes a fish hook can get caught in an animals skin. You should cut of any attached fishing line to prevent further injury, making sure you leave enough line attached so that the hook is visible (especially if covered by fur). If you cant get the hook out easily, gently pass it through until the barb is exposed. Where possible, try to cut off the barb section of the hook with wire cutters or pliers, then ease the shank back and out through the original incision. Clean and dress the wound and depending on the size of the wound you may need to take the animal to the vet.
If the hook has entered the eyes, mouth or ears DO NOT attempt removal. Take the animal to the vets immediately as an anaesthetic may be required.
Snake or Spider bites
Firstly you will have to find where your pet has been bitten, then cut away the fur and clean the area around the bite with warm water or an normal antiseptic. These types of injury's really need to be treated by a vet as soon as possible.
With cats the first sign of a bite may be an abscess or swelling and it may become listless and off its food. Bathe the swelling with warm water and mild disinfectant and take it to the vets immediately.
Cuts and Bleeding
Locate the injury or source of the bleeding and then cover with clean cloth or bandage. It is probably best to visit the vet immediately.
A broken limb
If your pets leg is broken, there is not much you will be able to do with it at home, other than make them as comfortable as possible. It may be possible to prepare a splint to support the broken bone, but generally you will need to visit the vet as soon as possible.
Choking
Immediately remove any collar. Hold their jaw open and try to remove any object caught in their throat. Be careful not to get get bitten in these circumstances. You may be able to place a block across the corner of the jaw to stop them biting, while hooking out the offending object with your fingers.
Seek professional attention if you think they may have damaged their throat in the process.
Heat Stroke
Just like babies and children, you should never leave an animal in a car on a hot day.
If your pet dog does get overheated, immediately try to cool them down by taking them to a cool spot and if possible soak them in cool water. If the heat stroke is serious, you should take the animal to the vet immediately.
They have developed a limp
There can be many reasons why your pet suddenly develops a limp. Check out the affected leg for signs of swelling or obvious points of pain. Often it will just be a thorn or splinter in their paw.
Carefully remover anything that shouldn't be there provided it will come out easily. Clean cuts in water, or disinfectant. Do not attempt to remove glass or anything which is firmly embedded as slivers may be left behind, the animal should be taken straight to the vet.
Poisoned!
If your pet shows any of the following symptoms it is a possibility it could have been poisoned. It could have resulted from consuming toxic plants, waste, or household cleaners etc. Tremors, excessive drooling, vomiting, convulsions, shivering. lack of coordination, or diarrhoea.
You should always try to seek veterinary assistance as soon as possible. Try and find out what they have eaten, such as solvent or week killer, so it will be easier for the vet to find the antidote. As long as your pet is not convulsing or unconscious, let it drink as much water as it wants, this will dilute the poison.
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