How to treat some of the most common pet injuries

by Jean Mansen

No one likes to think about his or her pet being hurt or injured, but accidents do happen. Knowing what to do can make a world of difference in saving your pet’s life. Make sure to keep your vet’s numbers and those of or emergency vets and hospitals on hand. If you live or travel some distance from your vet, it may be wise have the phone number of other nearby vets.

When bad things happen

Stay calm. Call your vet or an emergency vet first. If appropriate ask for specific first aid advice. A sick or injured pet may become aggressive. Approach the animal slowly and cautiously. Pay attention to your pet’s expressions and any sounds he may make. Refrain from making quick, jerky, or loud movements which may frighten the animal even more. When necessary use a towel or blanket to subdue him.

Use a muzzle if you have one and can safely place it on your dog. A strip of soft cloth, rope, necktie, leash, or nylon stocking can be wrapped around his nose, under his chin, and tied behind his ears. Cats and some dogs may be difficult to muzzle. In that case, a cloth placed around the head may help calm and control the animal. Do not approach or try to treat your pet or any animal unless you can do so without placing yourself in peril. An injured, frightened animal can be dangerous. Having both of you injured will only compound the problems. If you need to move or transport a pet who cannot walk, you can use a door, board, blanket, or floor mat as a stretcher.

Bleeding, breathing, bites, burns, and more

Bite wounds. Check the wound for contamination or debris, flush out the wound with large amounts of saline or regular water. Wrap large wounds to keep them clean; apply pressure to stop bleeding. Do not use a tourniquet.

Bleeding. Apply direct pressure over the area until bleeding stops. Hold the pressure for at least ten consecutive minutes. Avoid bandages that cut off circulation.

Breathing problems. CPR and rescue breathing are taught at Red Cross and other pet first aid courses. If it’s safe to handle the animal check to see if her airway is clear. If there is a blockage, see “choking” below.

Burns. Symptoms of burns (chemical, electric, or heat) include singed fur, blistering, swelling, or skin redness. If the animal has dry chemicals on his skin, brush them off immediately, but do not use water as that may activate certain dry chemicals. Once the chemical residue is removed, flush the burn with large quantities of cool, running water for at least five minutes. Wrap an ice pack in a light towel or other cover and apply for 15–20 minutes. Do not apply any ointments, creams, or butter; do not clip any fur or burst any blisters.

Choking. Symptoms of choking include difficulty breathing, pawing at the mouth, blue lips and tongue. A choking pet will be frantic and may try to bite. If the pet can still partially breathe keep her calm, and get to a vet as quickly as possible. While en route to the vet look into the pet’s mouth to see if a foreign object is visible. If you can, clear the airway by removing the object using pliers, tweezers, or your fingers. Take care not to push it farther down the throat.

If you have any concern that you may push the object further down your pet’s throat, place your fingers at the base of her jaw, and apply pressure inwards and upwards to expel the object. If it is lodged too deeply or she collapses, apply your hands to both sides of her rib cage and apply firm, quick pressure. Or place her on her side and firmly strike the side of her rib cage with the palm of your hand three or four times. Repeat this procedure until the object is dislodged or you arrive at the veterinarian’s office.

Drowning. If possible, remove the animal from the water and suspend him by his hindquarters to allow water to drain from his lungs. You can use a swinging motion to encourage breathing. If he does not start breathing naturally start resuscitation. Dry him and wrap him in a blanket to keep him warm.

Electric shock, low voltage. Do not touch your pet until you have turned off the electrical source. If your pet is unconscious check for signs of breathing. If he isn’t breathing implement rescue resuscitation. Treat bleeding or burned area as described above.

High voltage shocks. Do not approach or try to rescue a pet within 20 yards of the power source. Call 911. Keep bystanders away. When emergency personnel say it is safe, you may approach your pet, implement resuscitation, and apply first aid to bleeding or burned areas.

Eye injuries. If an eye is bulging or has come out of its socket do not try to replace or apply pressure to it. Gently apply a cold, wet compress to protect the eye and keep it moist. If there is an irritant in the eye or a foreign object on its surface keep your pet from rubbing his eye, and bathe it with lukewarm water.

Fractures. A pet with a broken bone or dislocated joint will show sudden, acute lameness, and the limb position may appear abnormal. Swelling may or may not be present. The animal will show distress on movement and unwillingness to use the limb. Muzzle your pet and look for bleeding. If you can control bleeding without causing further injury, do so. Do not try to set the fracture. Keep your pet still and restrained to limit further damage.

Heatstroke. Symptoms include rapid or labored breathing, vomiting, high body temperature, and/or collapse. Place your pet in a tub of cool water or put water on him with a garden hose and wrap him in a cool, wet towel. Do not overcool the animal; stop cooling when his rectal temperature reaches 103° F.

Poisoning. Symptoms include vomiting, convulsions, diarrhea, salivation, weakness, depression, and/or pain. If you know what your pet ingested and how much, call your vet or poison control center for directions. Do not induce vomiting unless so directed.

If toxins or chemicals are on the skin or paws from oils, paints, insecticides, or other contact irritants find out whether to wash the toxins off and how, if appropriate. Do not allow your pet to lick contaminated areas.

Snakebites. Rattlesnakes are the only poisonous snake in our state. Sometimes fang marks can be seen, particularly on short haired pets. Swelling occurs very rapidly around the area of the bite. Carry or slowly walk your pet to the nearest means of transport and get to the vet immediately. Being prepared means having the right products, first aid supplies, and emergency equipment on hand. You might also purchase a book you can use to write emergency numbers, your pet’s medical history, first aid tips, and other pertinent information. Why not carry a tote bag with you in your car? That way no matter where you are when the emergency arises you will have the best chance at rescuing not only your animal but other animals as well.