Emergencies can happen in the blink of an eye. Whether it’s a cut from broken glass, a sudden allergic reaction, or an accidental ingestion, pets often get into trouble when we least expect it. In those critical moments before veterinary care is available, knowing basic pet first aid can increase the odds of recovery. Companion Animal Hospital wants every owner to feel confident handling emergencies until they can get their pet to a veterinarian.
How to Respond to a Pet Emergency
Pets benefit from immediate care during accidents or health crises. First aid doesn’t replace veterinary treatment, but it can stabilize your pet and prevent conditions from worsening. A few minutes of quick action could even save your pet’s life. These are just a few steps that pet owners can take when pets need urgent medical attention.
As an important note, pets may lash out when they are injured out of fear and pain. Always be careful when handling a cat or dog having a medical emergency. If your pet is too agitated to handle, focus on getting them to an emergency vet.
Cuts, Wounds, or Bleeding
If your pet has a wound, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or towel to stop bleeding. Avoid using human antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide unless directed by a vet, as some products can cause issues. Keep adding towels for severe bleeding, and transport your pet for veterinary evaluation.
Choking
Signs that your pet may be choking include pawing at the mouth, gagging, or difficulty breathing. If safe, carefully look in your pet’s mouth to see if the object is visible. Do not blindly reach into your pet’s throat, as you could push the object deeper. If the object is clearly visible, you can try and pull it out with tweezers. If you cannot remove it safely, seek immediate veterinary care.
You can attempt the Heimlich Maneuver if the object is not able to be removed or if your pet is showing serious distress, such as collapse. Steps from the American Veterinary Medical Association can be found here. Try to get your animal companion to an emergency veterinarian as quickly as possible while performing this procedure.
Heatstroke
Hot Tennessee summers can lead to heat stress or heatstroke in pets. Symptoms of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, and collapse. Move your pet to a cool area and apply cool (not cold) water to their body. If your pet is awake, offer small amounts of water to drink. Seek veterinary attention immediately.
Poisoning
Pets may ingest plants, foods, or chemicals that are toxic. If you suspect poisoning, call your veterinarian or a control hotline like the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center right away. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed.
Building a Pet First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit should be a part of every pet owner’s home. If you frequently take your dog on trips, you may also benefit from having a travel kit in the car. Make sure to check the kit every once in a while to verify that nothing has expired. You can follow the AAHA guide for how to make a pet first aid kit.
When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care
While first aid can stabilize your pet, professional veterinary treatment is almost always needed afterward. Call a veterinarian for emergency services right away if your pet:
- Has severe bleeding
- Shows signs of poisoning or ingestion of a toxic substance
- Is struggling to breathe
- Experiences repeated seizures
- Appears unresponsive or in severe pain
Not all general veterinary practices offer emergency care during their business hours, so it is always a good idea to ask during their annual visit. For overnight emergencies, you will likely need to contact a specialty emergency vet hospital. Keep the phone number for the closest animal ER handy in your phone in case it’s ever needed.
Caring for Pets During Emergencies in Knoxville, TN
Knowing how to respond in an emergency is one of the most important responsibilities of pet ownership. With a basic understanding of first aid and a stocked emergency kit, you can provide immediate support that could save your pet’s life. Companion Animal Hospital offers veterinary emergency services in Knoxville during our business hours for pets from Knoxville, Fountain City, Powell, and neighboring areas. If you would like to learn more about pet first aid or need emergency care for your pet, contact us.