First aid for pets is crucial for stabilizing them before professional veterinary care is available. In any emergency, it is important to stay calm, as your calmness will help keep your pet calm as well. Ensuring the scene is safe for both you and your pet is essential to avoid further injury. If necessary, use a muzzle to prevent bites, but never muzzle a pet that is vomiting.

In cases of external bleeding, applying direct pressure with a clean cloth or bandage can help control the bleeding. Hold the pressure for several minutes to allow clotting. If the bleeding is severe, apply a tourniquet above the wound, loosening it every 10-15 minutes, and seek immediate veterinary care. For choking, check for visible objects in your pet’s mouth and carefully remove them with tweezers if possible. If the object is not visible, perform the Heimlich maneuver—placing your hands below the rib cage for large dogs or holding small dogs and cats upside down and applying firm back blows.

For thermal burns, cool the affected area with cold water for at least 10 minutes, avoiding direct ice application. In the case of chemical burns, flush the area with large amounts of water, taking care not to spread the chemical to unaffected areas. If your pet suffers from heatstroke, move them to a cool place immediately and apply cool (not cold) water to their body. Offer small amounts of water to drink and seek veterinary care urgently, as heatstroke can cause severe internal damage.

If your pet is poisoned, try to identify the substance and contact your vet or a pet poison hotline immediately. Unless instructed by a professional, do not induce vomiting as some substances can cause more harm if vomited. During seizures, protect your pet by moving furniture away to prevent injury, but do not restrain them. Note the duration of the seizure and seek veterinary help if it lasts more than a few minutes.

For fractures, restrict your pet’s movement as much as possible and support the injured area with a splint only if you are trained to do so. Transport your pet on a flat surface to the vet, avoiding any pressure on the broken bone. Keeping a basic first aid kit for pets at home can be incredibly helpful. Essential items include bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, a digital thermometer, scissors, a muzzle, sterile saline solution, and gloves.

Performing CPR on pets involves several steps. First, check for breathing and pulse, ensuring the airway is clear. For chest compressions, place your hands over the widest part of the chest for large dogs; for small dogs and cats, use one hand or fingers. Compress the chest about one-third to one-half the width of the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Give rescue breaths by closing the pet’s mouth, extending the neck, and blowing into the nostrils until the chest rises, administering two breaths for every 30 compressions. Continue until the pet starts breathing or help arrives.

While first aid can make a significant difference in an emergency, it is not a substitute for veterinary care. Always follow up with a professional to ensure your pet receives the necessary treatment.