5 Essential First-Aid Tips for Pet Owners

Ensuring your furkid’s safety is the utmost priority for every pawrent. Unfortunately, pets are prone to injuries and medical mishaps that may endanger their health, or worse, their lives.While most mishaps are avoidable, accidents may still occur. However, in those circumstances, time is of the essence and your pet often requires immediate attention and assistance.Hence, it’s crucial for pet owners, to be equipped with some basic pet-centric first-aid knowledge. Apart from having a first aid kit on hand, here are five first aid tips for common emergencies to be aware of.Pet Poisoning

Pets tend to be naturally curious creatures. While an endearing and natural trait, some pets may have the tendency to consume most things they come across and thus place their health at risk.

In the event of suspected food poisoning, remove your pet from the vicinity and check for breathing patterns and behaviour. At the same time, immediately call or make a trip to your preferred vet in Singapore for assistance. Provide the vet with details, if possible.That said, it’s not advisable to self-medicate your pet or to induce vomiting without consent a veterinarian. Several toxins are corrosive and should you induce vomiting, it may cause more injury than relief to your pet.Open Wounds

Wounds of any sort increase your pet’s risk of contracting an infection. While most wounds tend to be a minor graze, others may be beyond skin deep.If your pet has been inflicted with a deep wound, apply direct pressure onto it and visit your vet immediately. If there’s an object stuck to the wound, avoid removing it. For small grazes or minor wounds, cleanse it with saline or clean lukewarm water before applying a non-stinging antiseptic. If possible, wrap bandage the wound to prevent your pet from licking at the wound.Grooming Mishaps

Happen to unintentionally cut your pet’s nails during a grooming session? Panic not and attempt to stop the bleeding by placing a clean piece of absorbent cloth over the injury. Should the bleeding continue, contact the vet immediately.Choking

Immediate medical attention is required for choking cases. During your journey to the vet, check to see if you are able to locate the object and remove it as gently as possible. You may also perform the Heimlich manoeuvre, with extreme precaution and care.There are different methods of the Heimlich manoeuvre for felines and canines. However, do note that the Heimlich manoeuvre should be carried out carefully and that it may cause harm to your pet if not carried out correctly.Heat Stroke

Especially for countries with warmer climates like Singapore, heat strokes are a common occurrence. Should your pet display signs or symptoms of heat exhaustion such as excessive drooling and panting, consider cooling it down by draping a cool, wet towel or drizzle water over your pet’s head, stomach and paw. Once your pet’s body temperature has decreased, replace the cool towel for a dry one. Should your pet’s temperature remain high, visit the vet immediately.Familiarising yourself with these tips can go a long way in helping you to stabilise your pet’s condition in emergencies as well as minimise any further harm due to delayed attention.