PET FIRST AID

At different times we may all require some type of first aid. This applies to our pets, too!

Did you know that you can give your pets CPR if needed? Remarkably, it is very similar to providing CPR for a person. As for humans, follow the DRSABC approach:

1. Check for Dangers - to you, other bystanders and your pet. Remember cats especially will lash out and may scratch you while you are trying to assist them - wrap them in a towel to confine their paws and tail. Dogs may lash out and may bite you, even normally placid dogs!

2. Seek a response to a command, your touch or to pain, such as pushing on your pet’s paws.

3. Send for help - Call your vet. Explain why you are calling. This will assist them to ready themselves and their surgery ahead of your arrival. Not all vets carry all drugs. They may indicate the best place to send your pet.

4. Lay your pet on its right side. Check its airway by looking in its mouth and sweep out any foreign material. Pull its tongue forward - you may need a towel or similar to help you.

5. Check its breathing by looking at your pet’s chest rising and falling. If it is not breathing begin CPR (see point 4).

4. Place your hands around your pet’s mouth and along its snout. Blow into its nose.  Be careful not to cause your pet to bite its tongue. Leave a space around the end of your hands and breathe into its nose so that his chest rises and repeat.

5. Apply compressions on your pet’s chest over the point where its elbow meets his chest. As you would for a person, press about 1/3 of the depth of your pet's chest. Remember: this means less pressure for a small pet and more pressure for a pet with a larger chest!

6. Continue this process at a rate of 6 compressions: 2 breaths x 10 times per minute (= 100 - 120 compressions per minute). Check regularly for signs of life, especially after two minutes. Repeat if necessary.

After an episode like this, always take your pet to your vet who can inspect your pet thoroughly!