Pet First Aid Awareness

April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month! We know, it’s hard to even think of your beloved pet getting injured. Unfortunately, accidents do happen sometimes. Hopefully it goes without saying that if your furry friend is ever injured, you’ll need to take them straight to your vet or the nearest emergency clinic. However, you may need to perform some first aid before you can safely transport them. In this article from Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cy-Fair animal hospital, a vet discusses pet first aid.

First Aid Kit

If you don’t have a pet first aid kit, take a few minutes to make one. You can start with a basic kit for people. Then, add some pet-specific items. Some of the things you may want to include are tweezers, non-stick gauze, a muzzle, a leash and collar, a thermal blanket, rubbing alcohol, and styptic powder. Keep this near your pet’s carrier, so you don’t have to waste time looking for it in an emergency.

Brochures

In addition to the first aid kit, we recommend printing out some pet first aid brochures. These aren’t meant to replace professional emergency care, but are there to help you stabilize your pet enough to get them here. We also recommend downloading a good pet first aid app. Additionally, keep the number and address of both your vet and the nearest 24/7 emergency clinic in your phone and in the first aid kit. Our number is (281) 256-3150, and our address is 14940 Mueschke Rd., Cypress, TX 77433. Be sure to call ahead, so the staff can be ready for you! You may also want to include the number for the Pet Poison Helpline, which is 800-213-6680. (Charges may apply.)

Prevention

Of course, the best way to keep your pet safe is to take precautions against injury. Petproofing will go a long way here. Keep anything that could be dangerous out of paws’ reach. This includes things like toxic plants; chemicals; medications; anything small or sharp; plastic bags and wraps; lawn and garden products; and vitamins. If you have a dog and a yard, make sure that your fencing is secure, and get a self-lathing gate. As for Fluffy, keep her safe and sound indoors. Ask your vet for more information.

Please contact us here at Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cy-Fair animal hospital, anytime. We are here to help!