By: Michelle Bery
Let's face it; in many homes around the world, the family pet is just that – part of the family. There is nothing that loving pet owners would not do to ensure the longevity and vitality of their pet. So it’s unsurprising that pet owners are well versed in first aid for pets. Knowing what to do in order to temporarily treat injuries or react in an emergency can significantly impact the health of your pet.
Because most pets are similar to children in their natural curiosity, they can sometimes get in over their heads resulting in injury. Just as we prepare for minor injuries and serious emergencies when it comes to our children, so too must we make similar preparations for our pets.
Much of what we would include in a first aid kit for the human members of our household can also be included in a first aid for pets kit. Gauze, scissors, tape, alcohol or other antiseptic with which to clean a wound, antibacterial cream, and tweezers are all important items to include when administering first aid for pets.
Keep in mind that an animal who is in pain will often snap at you in an effort to keep you away from its wound. Use extreme caution when approaching your injured pet. Regardless of your warm and loving relationship, your pet may surprise you. This is simply an instinctual reaction. You may want to keep a muzzle handy should you ever need to administer emergency first aid for pets to a growling or biting animal.
First and foremost, keep in mind that first aid for pets is only a first line in defense against injuries. A veterinarian should always be consulted when dealing with an injury. You can certainly treat minor injuries at home but always give a call to your vet to make sure your pet does not need to be seen.
Of course, in the event of an emergency, administer what lifesaving first aid that you can and get to an animal hospital immediately. Keep the numbers of your veterinarian and your local animal hospital posted in clear sight.
For more information about preparing appropriate first aid for pets, your veterinarian can be enormously helpful. Ask him/her what to keep on hand in the event of an emergency. The short amount of time that it takes to gather such necessary items will be well worth the effort should you ever need to administer first aid for pets.
