When faced with a pet emergency, knowing what to do can make all the difference. Here are some first aid basics for common pet emergencies, along with steps to take to ensure your pet gets the care they need.
Seizures
Witnessing your pet having a seizure can be distressing, but staying calm is crucial. To keep your pet safe, clear the area of any hard or sharp objects that could cause injury. Pay close attention to their head, as they may inadvertently strike it against furniture or walls. Avoid trying to restrain your pet, as this could cause them to react unpredictably. Instead, focus on timing the seizure, as your vet will need this information to determine the severity of the situation.
Once the seizure stops, keep your pet warm and in a quiet, safe space. Monitor their behaviour closely, as post-seizure disorientation is common. Contact your vet immediately to discuss what happened and receive further instructions. If your pet experiences multiple seizures in a short time or has a seizure lasting longer than five minutes, it’s a medical emergency—take them to a vet or animal hospital without delay.
Key action: Keep your pet safe by clearing the area of any hard or sharp objects, especially their head. Do not try to restrain them. Time the seizure, and once it stops, keep your pet warm and quiet. Contact your vet for further instructions.
Poisoning
If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, act quickly. Remove any remaining substance from their mouth, if possible, and try to identify what they ingested. Common household toxins include chocolate, rat bait, medications, Xylitol (commonly found in chewing gum), certain houseplants, and foods like onions, pits of stone fruits or grapes. Call your vet or the Animal Poisons Helpline (1300 869 738) for advice specific to the toxin.
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional, as some substances can cause more harm when vomited. For example, certain cleaning chemicals or oils can cause severe burns to the oesophagus if regurgitated. In some cases, your vet may advise bringing your pet in for treatment to administer activated charcoal or other antidotes. Keep the packaging of the suspected poison handy, as it can provide critical information for treatment.
Key action: If you think your pet has swallowed something toxic, try to remove it from their mouth and call your vet or the Animal Poisons helpline (1300 869 738) immediately. Don’t make your pet vomit unless explicitly instructed.
Cuts and Scrapes
Minor cuts and scrapes can often be treated at home with basic first aid, but it’s essential to know when professional care is needed. Start by cleaning the wound with pet-safe antiseptic wipes or saline solution to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as these can irritate or delay healing.
Once the wound is clean, cover it with a sterile gauze pad and secure it gently with adhesive tape. If the cut is bleeding heavily, apply firm but gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze until the bleeding stops. If the wound is deep, won’t stop bleeding, or shows signs of infection (such as swelling, redness, or discharge), seek immediate veterinary care.
Key point: Clean the wound with antiseptic wipes and cover it with a clean gauze pad secured with tape. For heavy bleeding, apply direct pressure and seek vet care right away.
Car Accidents
Even if your pet seems unharmed after being hit by a car, they may have internal injuries or fractures that aren’t immediately visible. Ensure your own safety first by securing the area and moving your pet out of the roadway. Use a blanket or towel to carefully lift them, supporting their head and body to minimise movement.
Contact your vet or an emergency animal hospital right away, explaining what happened and describing your pet’s condition. Keep your pet as calm and still as possible during transport. Remember, adrenaline may temporarily mask pain in your pet, so don’t assume they’re okay just because they’re not visibly distressed.
Key action: Car accidents can cause severe injuries like broken bones and internal damage, even if your pet seems fine. If your pet is hit by a car, ensure your safety first, secure the area, and get them to an emergency vet right away.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs when your pet’s body overheats and can’t cool itself down. Breeds with flat faces, such as Bulldogs and Pugs, are particularly susceptible, as are pets left in hot environments or exercising in high temperatures.
If you suspect heatstroke, act immediately. Move your pet to a shaded or air-conditioned area and begin cooling them down. Use lukewarm water (never ice-cold) to wet their body, avoiding the face, and use a fan to increase air circulation. Offer small amounts of cool water to drink but don’t force them to drink too much too quickly, as this can lead to vomiting.
Even if your pet starts to recover, heatstroke can cause internal damage, so a vet visit is essential.
Key action: Heat stroke is a serious condition needing immediate vet care. If you suspect heat stroke, move your pet to a cooler place, cool them with water (avoid their face), use a fan, and offer water.
