Emergency Pet Care: What Every Pet Parent Must Know!

Would you know what to do if your dog suddenly collapsed? Or started choking?

Emergencies happen at the least unexpected moment; when it comes to pets, every second matters. Being prepared can be a life saver. 

As a loving pet parent, you must be prepared. This guide walks you through common pet emergencies, warning signs, and what immediate steps you can take to protect your pet’s life.

COMMON EMERGENCY SITUATION IN DOGS

Some of the most common emergency situations in dogs include:

• Choking on food or toys
• Severe vomiting or diarrhea
• Heatstroke 
• Heat exhaustion
• Accidents and falls
• Bloating
• Seizures
• Breathing difficulties
• Loss of consciousness
• Ingestion of poison or toxic substances

These can happen to any dog, anytime. Knowing what to do can mean the difference between life and loss.

WARNING SIGNS TO WATCH OUT FOR

If you notice any of these signs, act fast:

• Excessive drooling or panting
• Pale or bluish gums
• Heavy bleeding
• Sudden collapse
• Weak pulse or rapid heartbeat
• Vomiting blood or worms
• Difficulty breathing or swollen belly
• Uncontrolled shivering or seizures
• Not responding to your voice or touch

EMERGENCY FIRST AID AT HOME

While rushing to the vet is always the first choice, these steps can buy your pet time before you get professional help:

For Choking:

Gently open your pet's mouth and check for visible objects.

Don't push anything deeper.

Trained persons can use Heimlich Maneuver or pat dog's chest firmly to dislodge. 

Gently open your pet’s mouth and check for visible objects.

Don't push anything deeper.

Use the Heimlich maneuver (only if trained) or pat the chest firmly to dislodge.

For Heatstroke:

Move your pet to a cool, shaded place.

Offer small sips of water

Apply cool (not ice-cold) wet cloths to paws and belly.

For Seizures:

Ensure your pet is not near any sharp edges or stairs.

Don't try to hold or stop the seizure.

After seizure ends, comfort your pet and get to your veterinarian immediately.

For Bleeding:

Use clean gauze to apply firm pressure.

Elevate the limb if possible.

For Unconscious Pet:

Check breathing and heartbeat. 

Try CPR if trained.

Rush to the vet immediately.

MUST-HAVES IN YOUR PET EMERGENCY KIT

Prepare today. Here's what your pet first aid kit should include:

• Digital thermometer
• Gauze pads and bandages
• Hydrogen peroxide (to induce vomiting - only if your veterinarian advises)
• Cotton
• Antiseptic spray
• Tweezers
• Blunt scissors
• Muzzle
• Towel or blanket
• Pet-safe cooling gel or spray
• Activated charcoal (only if your veterinarian recommends)

You can get readymade pet emergency kits online. Check the reviews and make the right choice.

DON'T PANIC - TAKE ACTION

Being calm during emergency situations greatly helps to act immediately. Save your veterinarian's number, keep your pet's medical records in order and handy and always make note of behavioral changes, if any.

You can never afford to feel less adequate when it comes to being prepared for pet emergency should a need arise.