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Pet First Aid II
By peace | March 17, 2006
Fractures
Symptoms: Pain, inability to use a limb, or limb at odd angle
Treatment/Action
Muzzle the pet and look for bleeding. If you can control bleeding without causing more injury, then do so. Watch for signs of shock. DO NOT TRY TO SET THE FRACTURE by pulling or tugging on the limb. Transport the pet to the veterinarian immediately, supporting the injured part as best you can.
Heatstroke
Symptoms: Rapid or labored breathing, vomiting, high body temperature, collapse
Treatment/Action
Place the animal in a tub of cool water. Or, gently soak the animal with a garden hose or wrap it in a cool, wet towel. Do not overcool the animal. Stop cooling when rectal temperature reaches 103 degrees Fahrenheit.
Call veterinarian immediately.
Poisoning
Symptoms: vomiting, convulsions, diarrhea, salivation, weakness, depression, pain
Treatment/Action
Record what the pet ingested and how much. Immediately call your veterinarian or poison control center. Do not induce vomiting. In case of toxins or chemicals on the skin from oils, paints, insecticides and other contact irritants, request directions on if and how to wash the toxin off.
Seizures
Symptoms: salivation, loss of control of urine or stool, violent muscle twitching, loss of consciousness
Treatment/Action
Move the pet away from any objects that could be harmful during the seizure. Use a blanket for padding and protection. Do not put yourself at risk by restraining the pet during the seizure. Time the seizure. They usually last only 2 to 3 minutes. Afterwards, keep the animal calm and quiet.
Call your veterinarian immediately.
Shock
Symptoms: irregular breathing, dilated pupils
Treatment/Action
Shock may occur as a result of a serious injury or fright. Keep the animal gently restrained, quiet, and warm, with the lower body elevated.
Call your veterinarian immediately.
Vomiting
Treatment/Action
Withhold food for 12-24 hours. Give the pet ice cubes for two hours after vomiting stops, then slowly increase the amount of water and foods given over a 24-hour period.
Call your veterinarian.
If you need to muzzle your pet
Use a strip of soft cloth, rope, necktie, or nylon stocking. Wrap around the nose, under the chin and tie behind the ears. Care must be taken when handling weak or injured pets. Even normally docile pets will bite when in pain. Allow the pet to pant after handling by loosening or removing the muzzle. Do not use a muzzle in a case of vomiting. Cats and small pets may be difficult to muzzle. A towel placed around the head will help control small pets.
If your pet can’t walk
A door, board, blanket, or floor mat can be used as a stretcher to transport injured or weak animals.
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