Anyone got first aid tips for pets? My dog had a scare!

So my dog nearly choked on a bone today… Scariest thing ever. I had no clue what to do at first, but I remembered something about the Heimlich for dogs. Ended up holding him upside down and shaking him a bit, and thankfully, it worked. But now I’m thinking I should know more about pet first aid just in case. What are some must-know tips? Also, is there anything I should keep in a pet emergency kit?

That sounds terrifying! Yeah, knowing pet first aid is super important. Do you have an emergency kit? Bandages, antiseptic, and a pet first aid guide are must-haves.

Sam said:
That sounds terrifying! Yeah, knowing pet first aid is super important. Do you have an emergency kit? Bandages, antiseptic, and a pet first aid guide are must-haves.

Nope, I don’t have one… Guess I should put one together. Any specific kind of antiseptic that’s safe for pets?

Sam said:
That sounds terrifying! Yeah, knowing pet first aid is super important. Do you have an emergency kit? Bandages, antiseptic, and a pet first aid guide are must-haves.

Yeah, definitely get pet-safe antiseptic. Also, having tweezers in the kit helps for things like glass or metal shards in their paws.

If your dog chokes again, you can also try sweeping their mouth with your finger before using the Heimlich. Works if the object is reachable.

Amar said:
If your dog chokes again, you can also try sweeping their mouth with your finger before using the Heimlich. Works if the object is reachable.

Oh, good to know. Didn’t wanna risk sticking my hand in there and making things worse lol.

FYI, if a cat has a string in its mouth, DO NOT pull it out unless it slides out easily. It could be tangled inside.

Sawyer said:
FYI, if a cat has a string in its mouth, DO NOT pull it out unless it slides out easily. It could be tangled inside.

Wait, why not? Wouldn’t pulling it just get it out faster?

Sawyer said:
FYI, if a cat has a string in its mouth, DO NOT pull it out unless it slides out easily. It could be tangled inside.

Nope, if it’s stuck, pulling can make it worse by damaging their intestines. Best to get a vet to handle it.

Anyone know what to do for a dog with a broken leg? My friend’s dog got hit by a car and she panicked.

Oak said:
Anyone know what to do for a dog with a broken leg? My friend’s dog got hit by a car and she panicked.

If it happens again, don’t try to splint it yourself. Just keep the dog still, put them on a flat surface, and get them to a vet.

Heatstroke is another thing to watch out for. Never leave pets in a car or direct sun for too long.

Tanner said:
Heatstroke is another thing to watch out for. Never leave pets in a car or direct sun for too long.

Yeah, I heard that can be serious. What’s the best way to cool them down if it happens?

Tanner said:
Heatstroke is another thing to watch out for. Never leave pets in a car or direct sun for too long.

Move them to shade, put a cooling towel around their neck, and run water over their belly and hind legs. Vet ASAP!