Emergencies are never on the schedule, and when it comes to your dog, even a small moment of panic can feel overwhelming. April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month, which makes it the perfect time to learn a few simple skills that can help you feel prepared to act if something unexpected happens. While no one wants to imagine their dog in distress, having a basic understanding of doggie first aid can make a meaningful difference.
In this post, we’ll take you through the importance of:
RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF TROUBLE IN YOUR DOG
Since dogs cannot communicate how they feel, it is crucial to observe any shifts in their behavior or changes in their appearance. Watch for signs such as:
- Unusual tiredness or changes in energy levels
- Posture changes
- Difficulty breathing
- Vomiting
- Limping
- Excessive drooling and licking
- Sudden changes in appetite
You know your pup best. If you can sense they’re acting differently from their usual self, it is worth consulting your vet before a sudden emergency arises or the situation worsens.
KEEP EMERGENCY CONTACTS ON STAND-BY
In an emergency, having the right contact information readily available can save valuable time. Make sure to add the following to your phone and keep a visible copy in your home:
- Your vet’s phone number
- Contact details of the nearest 24-hour emergency animal hospital
- The hotline for a poison control center (such as the 24-hour ASPCA Poison Control phone number)
Being prepared in this way can help you act quickly and confidently, so you can focus on getting them the care they need without scrambling to find help.
BUILD AN EMERGENCY FIRST-AID KIT FOR YOUR DOG
Creating an emergency first-aid kit for your dog can be extremely valuable. Some items you may want to include are gauze, nonstick bandages, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, a small flashlight (in case you’re in environments with low light), tweezers, a digital thermometer made for pets, disposable gloves, scissors, and a copy of your dog’s medical records to give anyone who may be treating your dog in an emergency.
KNOW HOW TO GIVE YOUR DOG CPR AND THE HEIMLICH MANEUVER
DOG CPR
In a frightening and unfortunate situation where a dog is unconscious, not breathing, or lacks a detectable pulse, giving CPR may be required. Having a basic understanding of when CPR is needed and how it works can help you respond more quickly in an emergency situation.
The American Red Cross has a step-by-step guide to performing CPR on your dog, including what to do before, during, and after.
THE HEIMLICH MANEUVER ON DOGS
Choking is an emergency that requires quick thinking. If you cannot successfully retrieve an item from your dog’s mouth and their airway is blocked, knowing how to perform the Heimlich maneuver can be critical. Signs your dog is choking can include coughing, gagging/retching, excessive drooling, panicked behavior, and difficulty breathing.
For more information about how to perform the Heimlich maneuver on your dog, check out the guide by the American Red Cross.
HANDLING OVERHEATING IN DOGS BEFORE IT PROGRESSES TO HEAT STROKE
Dogs can overheat quickly, especially in warm weather. Limiting time spent outdoors during heatwaves and making sure they stay cool can be important first steps. However, if you notice they start panting heavily, are drooling, and are showing signs of weakness, it is crucial to get them to a shaded, cooler area, offer small amounts of water if they’re willing to drink (do not force them to drink), and use a damp, cool cloth on their body to help lower their body temperature. Be sure to avoid using ice-cold water, as this could cause their body to go into shock.
While it is always best to let your vet know if your pup experiences overheating, it is especially critical to do so if you notice signs of heatstroke, which can include all the signs of overheating plus lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and more advanced signs like collapsing, seizures, and going unconscious. This is when you need to get immediate help from a professional.
READ MORE: Summer Heat Safety for Dogs
THE IMPORTANCE OF STAYING CALM
No matter the situation, staying calm is one of the most important things you can do for your dog during an emergency, as it can help you think more clearly. For example, if your dog has a small scrape or cut, you can take a moment to gently clean the area and apply a bandage without rushing or causing additional discomfort. However, in more urgent situations, staying calm can help you assess what’s happening and take the right next steps.
For more information on handling specific pet emergencies, the American Veterinary Medical Association has a helpful guide with actionable steps.