You are probably prepared for a medical emergency like if a family member is wounded. But do you know what to do if your pet is bleeding or choking?

Knowing some basic techniques of first aid can make all the difference between life and death.

Here are some common dog emergencies and first aid techniques & items to use before going to the veterinarian.

Car Accident

The dog may get hit by a car and be extreme in pain. So make a mask first with a scarf, belt, or towel, unless you are cleaning. Remove an animal from the road by carefully loading it onto a towel or cloth (this should be in your car’s first aid kit). 

Do not lift the animal. Make sure it is warm, as it may be scary. If there are any broken bones, do your best not to move them too much.

Poisoning

Many household items can be harmful to dogs and cats – everything from antifreeze, insecticides, and aspirin to dried and sugar-free. But do not panic. Many of them have remedies. 

Call the hot Animal Poison Control hotline at 888-426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680 immediately. They may even be able to help you even before you go to the vet. (Understand, but there is money for advice.)

Choking Dog

If your pet is unconscious, open your mouth and try to wipe the object with your fingers. If the animal knows, make a modified Heimlich maneuver. Place the animal on its side, apply pressure directly behind the ribs and press your hands forward. This can help to get the object out. Get someone else to call a veterinarian to continue doing this along the way.

Seizures

Seizures usually go away on its own within three minutes. Your job is to make sure the animal is safe while it is happening. Find any furniture that moves away from the animal. Do not put your hands or your face in the animal’s mouth, and do not put its tongue out of its mouth. When fainting is complete, consult a veterinarian.

Dog Bites

If another dog bites your pet, go to the clinic as soon as possible. A dog bite can pull a lot of hair and residue from a wound. If not cleaned immediately, it can become infected.

Bees Sting

Bees and wasps stings often cause mild inflammation and attraction. If you see a sting, use a credit card to scratch it, or pull it out with your paws. An antihistamine like Benadryl will relieve some of the symptoms, but call your veterinarian to ask how much you can donate. If you notice any swelling on the face or neck, or on the whole body, take the animal to a veterinarian immediately. This can be a severe anaphylactic reaction – a specific emergency.

Heatstroke

If your pet is very short of breath, sucking saliva, has trouble breathing, or shows other symptoms of fever, remove it from the dignified area immediately. Put a cool, wet cloth around the neck and head (not on the face). You can also gently throw the animal down with cool water, especially the abdomen, before taking it to the veterinarian. Do not cool your pet too quickly as this can be dangerous.

List of primary first- aid items

Gauze: A medical gauze is a great essential first-aid item to have around in the event of an injury for dogs & humans.

Non-Stick Bandages: Self-adhering bandages work well on dogs without sticking to their fur. 

Adhesive Tape: The self-adhering bandages/ tape are another essential item for dog emergencies.

Cotton Balls: Soft absorbent cotton balls can be used in either the application of medicine or the cleaning up of cuts or wounds belonging to your or your pup.

Hydrogen Peroxide: An antiseptic like hydrogen peroxide helps prevent infection in the event of any injury. It is always a good idea to have it available in your first-aid kit.

Antibiotic Spray or Ointment: A non-toxic ointment can be used to treat cuts, sores, rashes, dry skin, and allergies. Use an ointment/spray that is safe for dogs if accidentally ingested.

Syringes: Syringes come handy while giving oral medications to your dog or flushing wounds.