Arching back, lethargic, restless, bloated or distended stomach
Especially in addition to whining, listlessness, inability to get comfortable, vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Don’t give your pet food or water. This may induce vomiting and make it worse
Cold, Frostbite
Signs of frostbite include:
- Discolored patches of skin that are bluish or pale
- Excessive, relentless shivering
- Lethargy
- Weakness and inability to stand
Move the pet to a warm place right away. Try to raise your pet’s body temperature by wrapping him/her in a blanket or using hot water bottles covered with towels. Don’t use electric heat or rub your pet with blankets, which can damage cold tissue.
My favorite hot water bottle can be found here.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea may – or may not – be a sign of serious illness. Contact a vet if:
- Diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours or if there is blood in it.
- If your pet is vomiting, sluggish or wreck or stops eating in addition to the diarrhea.
Bites from Insects & Snakes
Insects: Signs of an allergic reaction include:
- Chewing at feet
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Hives
- Puffiness around the eyes
- Scratching
- Swollen face
- Vomiting
Snake bites: If you see the snake, try to remember what the snake looks like so you can tell the vet.
Bleeding, Cuts, Bite wounds & Lacerations
If you can’t quickly get to a vet, flush wounds with saline solution or clear water. Wrap large wounds with bandages or towels. Apply firm pressure to stop bleeding. Never use a tourniquet.
I always have these pet wraps on hand for my cat and dog.
What I like most about them is that they provide support and comfort. My dog has never complained when they are on him, and they are really easy to wrap. They are easy to apply and are a no-chew bitter bandage.
Burns
Immediately flush the area with cool water for 5 minutes. Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth to the burned area for 10-15 minutes. Never apply an ice pack directly to the skin.
These pet-friendly gel packs are reusable, non-toxic and microwave and freezer safe.
Eyes: Injuries, Infections, Pawing at the Eyes
Signs of infection or irritation include:
- Different pupil sizes
- Squinting
- Discharge
- Tearing
- Redness or swelling
If you know the irritation is caused by a chemical or by fine dirt or debris, immediately flush the eye(s) with sterile saline solution or clean water for 5-10 minutes.
Head Tilts and/or Circling
Regular head tilts and circling can be signs of very serious disease, including brain infections or inflammation. Take a video when it happens to show your vet.
Heat & Dehydration
Signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke include:
- Excessive, relentless panting
- Lethargy
- Uncoordinated movements
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Weakness or inability to stand
Move your pet to a cool area asap. Hose him down and/or cover him with wet towels.
Limping, Lameness or Suspected Broken Bones
- Your pet is suddenly not pulling full weight on a leg
- A leg looks bent, swollen or obviously fractured
Preparation steps for a trip to the veterinarian:
- Your pet may be in pain – use caution
- Do not pull on a leg to straighten it. You could make it worse.
- Stabilize the leg as best as possible and get to a pet hospital right away
Poison, Toxic Substances
Signs include:
- Disorientation
- Excessive salivating
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Weakness
If you know what the pet has eaten, have the container with you when you contact the doctor. If you can’t find the container but your pet has vomited, bring the vomit in a bag.
You can also call ASPCA poison control at 888.426.4435 – make a note of the case number provided so you can tell your vet.
Additional First Aid Supplies that are handy at home:
- Antibiotic ointment (such as Neosporin)
- Gauze, squares or rolled
- Leash (dog/cat)
- Non-adhesive pads
- Rubber or latex gloves (I love these, because they are scratch and bite resistant)
- Self-adherent medical wrap
- Sterile saline or contact solution
I keep a “pet emergency kit” with all of these items that are ready to go. I’ve purchased most of them with my FSA-card. Many are FSA/HSA-eligible.
I also have this skunk shampoo that I’ve used half a dozen times and works much better than the homemade versions I’ve tried previously.
If you know your dog got sprayed in the eyes, or their eye(s) are red, flush them with clear cold water, and call your vet right away.
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I hope you enjoyed reading my blog! If there is another pet topic you would like information on, please comment below!
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