5 Pet First Aid Skills You Need to Know

As a pet parent, your furry friend's well-being is your top priority. But what do you do when your pet faces an emergency? Here are five essential first aid skills that can make all the difference.

1. Understanding Your Pet's Basic Anatomy

Knowing your pet's anatomy is crucial for effective communication with your vet during emergencies. For instance, understanding the difference between your dog's shoulder, wrist, and ankle can be invaluable.

2. How to Handle Skin Wounds

Skin wounds are a common issue that every pet parent will likely face. The first step is to control the bleeding by applying pressure for at least 3 minutes. Once you've done that, assess the wound to determine its severity. For minor wounds, you can clean them with a saline solution and apply a pet-friendly first aid wound spray like our Soothe + Skin Protect.

3. Managing Torn Nails

A torn nail can be painful for your pet. The first step is to control the bleeding, which may take longer than for skin wounds. Once the bleeding is under control, you can clean the area and trim back any hair. Our Pet First Aid Kit is an excellent resource for such emergencies.

4. Assessing Gum Colour and Refill Time

Being aware of your pet's normal gum color can be a lifesaver. If you notice that the gums are very pale pink, white, or dark red, or if the refill time is over 2 seconds, it's time to consult a vet immediately.

5. Dealing with Vomiting and Diarrhea

Vomiting and diarrhea are common issues, but knowing when to consult a vet is crucial. If there's blood in the vomit or diarrhea, or if the symptoms persist for more than 48 hours, it's time to see a vet.

Being prepared can make all the difference in an emergency. That's why we recommend our Pet First Aid Kit, which comes with instructional cards and QR-linked videos to guide you through the basic first aid steps.

Your pet's health and safety are too important to leave to chance. Equip yourself with the right knowledge and tools to ensure you're prepared when your pet needs you the most.

Written by Dr. Nicole Rous, Mont Albert Veterinary Surgery featured on Australian Dog Lover.