1. Create a Pet Emergency Kit
Just as you might have a first-aid kit for yourself, having one for your pet can be a lifesaver. Here’s what to include:
- Emergency phone numbers (your regular vet and an emergency vet)
- Bandages and gauze (for wounds or injuries)
- Antiseptic wipes (for cleaning minor wounds)
- Towel or blanket (to wrap your pet in case they need to be held)
Keep your kit in an easily accessible location and familiarize yourself with its contents so you’re ready when needed.
2.Know Your Pet’s Normal Behaviour and Vitals
Understanding what’s normal for your pet is crucial in identifying when something is wrong. Observe and note:
- Respiratory rate: Count how many breaths your pet takes per minute while they’re resting.
- Heart rate: Check your pet’s pulse by placing your hand on their chest or inner thigh.
- Behavioural changes: Any sudden withdrawal, aggression, lethargy, or loss of appetite may signal an emergency.
3. Know Where to Get Emergency Help
Emergencies rarely happen during normal business hours, so it’s important to know where to turn for after-hours or weekend help.
- Identify emergency veterinary clinics in your area. All practices will have a dedicated emergency service, but you need to know their contact numbers in advance.
- Mobile emergency vet services. These can provide critical care right at your home, which can be less stressful for your pet and more convenient in a time-sensitive situation, then post it somewhere easy to see—like on the fridge or near the phone.
4. Practice Handling Your Pet
During an emergency, pets can become stressed, scared, or even aggressive. Regularly practice handling your pet to ensure you can safely examine or restrain them if necessary.
- Gently touch their paws, mouth, and ears so they become used to you handling these sensitive areas.
- Try lifting them onto a blanket or towel so they’re familiar with the sensation, which can be helpful if they need to be moved while injured.
5. Learn Basic Pet First Aid
Basic first aid knowledge can help stabilize your pet while you’re waiting for professional care. Consider taking a pet first aid course or learning skills such as:
- Keep your pets secure: Many animals will react unpredictably when unwell, lock any cat or dog flaps to keep them inside while you call for help.
- How to stop bleeding: Use a clean cloth and apply gentle pressure to stop minor bleeding.
- Performing CPR: Knowing how to check for breathing and administer chest compressions can be critical for pets experiencing cardiac arrest.
- Dealing with seizures: Take care to remove yourself from danger, pets can unintentionally injure their owners when seizuring. Turn off all lights and noise and immediately call a vet.
6. Monitor for Common Emergency Symptoms
There are certain symptoms that require immediate attention from a vet. Keep an eye out for:
- Difficulty breathing or excessive panting.
- Sudden vomiting or diarrhoea, especially with blood
- Severe limping or inability to stand.
- Unresponsiveness or difficulty waking up.
- Seizures or collapse
- Witnessed ingestion of substances
If any of these symptoms appear, contact us immediately.
7. Stay Calm and Act Fast
In an emergency, it’s important to remain calm so you can think clearly. Pets can pick up on their owners’ stress, so taking a deep breath and focusing on the next step can help keep the situation from escalating. The more prepared you are, the more effectively you’ll be able to respond.
8. Consider Pet Insurance
Unexpected medical bills can quickly add up in an emergency. Pet insurance can help cover some of the costs of emergency care, surgeries, and follow-up treatments. Look for a plan that fits your budget and offers coverage for accidents, illnesses, and emergency services.
Being prepared for a pet emergency can help you react confidently and efficiently when your pet needs you the most. Taking the time to assemble a kit, learn basic first aid, and identify emergency resources will give you peace of mind and could potentially save your pet’s life. Remember, when in doubt, always err on the side of caution and contact a veterinary professional at the first sign of trouble. Your pet counts on you to be their advocate—and with the right preparation, you’ll be ready when they need you the most.
