Preparing for the Unexpected: tips to give pet parents for handling emergencies at home

As veterinary providers, we’re often the first responders to patient emergencies. Yet, as much as we try to be available, pet parents should also be prepared to act quickly when their pets are distressed.

Offering education on responding at home before they reach our practices can significantly affect the outcome of a critical situation.

Here are some key strategies we can share to help them stay calm and competent during a crisis.

1. The Importance of a Pet First Aid Kit

A well-stocked, pet-specific first aid kit is one of the most essential tools for any pet owner. While most households already have basic first aid supplies, reminding clients to include items specific to pets can help them be better prepared. Essentials include:

• Sterile gauze and bandages (self-adhesive)

• Tweezers and blunt-tipped scissors

• Hydrogen peroxide (for inducing vomiting under professional guidance)

• Non-stick wound pads

• Thermometer and lubricating jelly

• Emergency contact information (vet clinic, after-hours ER, poison control)

2. Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of a True Emergency

It’s not uncommon for pet parents to hesitate in determining whether their pet's behavior or symptoms warrant immediate care. Advise them to seek immediate veterinary attention if their pet is experiencing:

• Difficulty breathing or choking

• Seizures, collapse, or ataxia

• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea (especially if blood is present)

• Severe pain (vocalizing, limping, or reluctance to move)

• Ingestion of toxins (medications, chocolate, plants)

• Major trauma (e.g., from a fall or vehicle accident)

• Heatstroke symptoms (excessive panting, lethargy, bright red gums)

3. Pet CPR: Basic Instructions

Teaching the basics of pet CPR can save lives in critical moments. While pet parents shouldn’t attempt to handle all medical emergencies at home, understanding CPR for pets can be crucial while on route to the hospital.

Consider offering short workshops or providing clear, visual handouts on CPR for both dogs and cats. Some simple steps to share for CPR include:

• Ensure the airway is clear

• Check for breathing and a heartbeat

• If no heartbeat, begin chest compressions (compressions vary based on size)

• Combine with rescue breathing (mouth over muzzle for dogs, mouth over nose for cats)

Remind them this is a temporary measure while getting the pet to a veterinarian, not a solution.

4. Handling Common Injuries at Home

Pet’s may experience injuries like cuts, burns, or bite wounds, which need immediate care. Giving pet parents clear instructions on stabilizing the pet and controlling bleeding can prevent complications. For example:

• Cuts or lacerations: Clean the wound with a saline solution and apply gentle pressure with a non-stick pad. Elevate the area if possible to reduce blood flow.

• Burns: Cool the burn with cold water for several minutes, but avoid ice. Bandage the area loosely to prevent further injury.

• Bite wounds: Rinse the wound with clean water and cover it with a sterile bandage until it reaches the clinic.

While these steps help, professional veterinary care is critical for preventing infection or further complications.

5. Stay Calm and Keep Safe

One of the most valuable things we can instill in pet parents is the importance of staying calm in an emergency. Reassure them that it's okay to feel overwhelmed and that staying composed will allow them to make clearer decisions.

Encourage them to avoid putting themselves at risk, such as reaching into a pet's mouth during a seizure or attempting to break up a dog fight without tools.

7. Preparing for Natural Disasters

Whether they live in a region prone to wildfires, hurricanes, or earthquakes, encourage pet owners to include their pets in their disaster preparedness plan. Having a checklist on hand can be a helpful way to help them prepare.

The checklist might include:

• A portable carrier or crate for each pet

• A week's worth of food and water stored in an easily transportable container

• Copies of medical records, vaccination status, and any necessary medications

• Identification tags or microchip registration up to date

Empowering Pet Parents During Critical Moments

By offering guidance on handling emergencies at home, we can empower them to act swiftly and effectively. Whether teaching them the signs of a severe emergency, demonstrating CPR techniques, or helping them prepare a disaster kit, these steps help bridge the gap between the initial crisis and the moment they walk through our clinic doors.

Prepared pet parents make all the difference in those critical moments, and with our support, they can be ready to give their pets the best care possible.