Pet First Aid: What to Do in an Emergency

Stay Calm, Act Fast

Your calm response keeps your pet safer and helps you think. Have your vet and an emergency clinic number saved before trouble starts.

Choking

• Look in the mouth; remove visible objects with fingers or tweezers
• If the pet is conscious and struggling, a modified Heimlich can help: thrusts just behind the rib cage for dogs; gentle chest compressions for cats
• Get to a vet—swelling can recur

Heatstroke

Move to shade, pour cool water over the body and between the legs, offer small sips, and seek urgent care. Do not use ice.

Wounds and Bleeding

Apply firm pressure with gauze for at least 5 minutes. For limb wounds, wrap snugly. Cover with a clean bandage and go to the clinic.

Seizures

Clear the area of hard objects, do not put your hands in the mouth, time the seizure, and call the vet. Most end within a few minutes.

Poisoning

Identify what was ingested and when. Call a pet poison helpline or vet immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed—some substances cause more damage coming back up.

Transport

Use a carrier or board to keep the pet still. Keep him warm but not overheated.

First aid stabilizes; it does not replace veterinary treatment.