Medical Emergencies And First Aid For Your Pet

***This information is not meant to be used in place of professional medical care.  If you are concerned about an emergency to your pet's health, please contact Ammon Veterinary Hospital at 552-9825***

Medical emergencies come in many forms, suddenly and without warning. Common emergencies are hit-by-car injuries, allergic reactions, burns and scalds, heat stroke, bleeding, poisoning, eye injuries, seizures, persistent vomiting and diarrhea and more. While no one can be prepared for all medical emergencies there are a few simple guidelines that can aid owners in helping their pet loved ones. The following list and guidelines are not comprehensive and serve only as a general guide. Always contact your veterinarian as soon as possible in any medical emergency or illness for more specific treatment and advice.

Specific First Aid 

Blood Loss-If bleeding is severe, try to stop it by applying a dressing using a bandage or piece of clothing. Most bleeding wounds require medical or surgical care. A wound that is treated within 4 hours has a decreased chance of infection and complications.

 Burns and Scalds-Cool the burned area with cold water as quickly as possible. If the burn is caused by a caustic substance, rinse the area with cold water for 15 minutes. Contact your veterinarian for further advice.

 Eye injuries-Eye injuries are very painful. If a foreign body (grass awn, twig) is seen you may be able to remove it by rinsing the eye with an eye wash. Seek veterinary advice

 Seizures-Causes of seizures range from eclampsia (milk fever) to epilepsy. If your pet is experiencing seizure like activity, contact your veterinarian immediately. Keep your pet in a dark, quiet, confined area until medical help is reached.

Heat Stroke-Early signs of heat stroke are panting, lethargy and distress followed by unconsciousness and death. Reduce your pet’s body temperature as quickly as possible using cool water and keep the dog wet during transport. Do not use ice baths because this may drop the temperature too quickly resulting in further complications.

 Persistent vomiting or diarrhea-Persistent vomiting or diarrhea could be a sign of poisoning, obstruction or gastrointestinal infection. Small dogs can become dehydrated very quickly. Contact your veterinarian and do not force your pet to eat or drink or give human medications which may worsen your pet’s condition.

Anaphylaxis-Severe allergic reactions can result in sudden collapse, vomiting, diarrhea, and breathing difficulties. Causes vary from insect bites or stings to contact allergies and injection reactions. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your pet is having a reaction.