First Aid

Correctly applied First Aid prevents unnecessary suffering and further deterioration in the patient's condition and preserves life. Here is a brief guide to emergency first aid for a pet and the basic equipment requirements. One should always seek the assistance of a veterinary surgeon as soon as practical. The Veterinary Surgeons act of 1966 stipulates that no one, other than a Registered Veterinary Surgeon can practice veterinary surgery. However, if a veterinary surgeon is not on hand, a member of the public may give First Aid until veterinary assistance help can be given.

Step 1: Comfort and Restrain

Even the most placid and affectionate pet can become aggressive and unpredictable when hurt or frightened. Speak to it calmly and reassuringly. If it appears aggressive or behaves as if it may react aggressively, form a running noose with its lead and quietly and gently put this over the dogs head. Dogs often feel more secure with a lead on and should it panic or try to run off, it is at least inhibited from doing more damage to itself. Be aware that dogs may still snap instinctively at this stage, so be prepared to make a muzzle with any piece of material you have to hand such as a scarf, tie, lead or even stockings. Having made a single loop, gently lower this and tie it firmly around the muzzle before crossing it under the jaw and finally tying it behind the neck. Note that a muzzle may only safely be applied if the animal's breathing is not in any way impaired. Never apply a muzzle to an animal which is panting heavily as you can induce panic or potentially cause choking if there is bleeding from the mouth or nose.

Step 2: Examination

Check for bleeding and make sure the airway is clear. Bleeding can usually be controlled by applying light finger pressure or a moist pad of tissue or cotton wool to the source of the blood while reassuring the injured pet. Never apply a tourniquet! They are always painful if effectively applied and rarely if ever helpful. Check for obvious sources of pain and injuries which must avoided or be handled with care when moving the animal. Also look for signs of limbs in unnatural positions which might indicate fractures and dislocations. This information allows one to give the veterinary surgery an accurate picture of what they are preparing to receive at the surgery and also assists the first aider to avoid unwittingly causing more suffering when moving the patient. Ensure the mouth and nose is free of blood and debris as far as possible and that the animal has no obvious airway obstructions. At this stage wrap the animal in a blanket or towel to maintain body temperature and give comfort. If at all possible, gently transport the animal to a prepared car for transport to the veterinary surgery and advise the practice that you will be arriving with an injured animal. If the animal is in too much pain to be moved, ask that the vet comes out, but remember that while this may appear to more convenient, the animal's treatment will be delayed and the best place to give what may be life saving care is definitely at the veterinary practice.

Step 3: Transport to the Veterinary Surgery

Cats should always be swathed in a large towel, coat or blanket and be gently supported, ideally in someone's arms. If the victim is a dog and it can walk or limp to the vehicle then allow it to do so. This may be less painful than being manhandled but use common sense and take your time. A small dog may be lifted and carried by placing one arm gently around its neck and using the other arm to scoop the body up. A large dog may be lifted and carried by placing one arm gently around its fore legs and the other arm around its hind legs – this is a two person procedure, with a person at each end for very large dogs. Whatever the size of the animal, always take into account the location and nature of the injury and never block the airway. Hold the animal close to your body and make sure that it cannot turn its head and bite!

First Aid Kit

Have a first aid kit for your dog in an obvious place in the house or car. The kit should include:

On your first aid box and lid write your vet's details as below,