Learn About Pet Safety During American Red Cross Pet First Aid Awareness Month
Learn About Pet Safety During American Red Cross Pet First Aid Awareness Month
April is American Red Cross Pet First Aid Awareness Month. It is the perfect time for pet parents to prepare for an emergency. Knowing what to do and having the right supplies will help you handle a crisis and provide the quickest care possible.
Make a Pet First-Aid Kit
While you probably have a first-aid kit for humans, your pets should have one, too.
Items to include in a pet first-aid kit include:
• Gloves
• Antiseptic wipes
• Clean blankets or towels
• Self-stick gauze
• Splint
• Plastic syringes
• Tweezers
• Pet thermometer
If your pet ingests something poisonous, you may need milk of magnesia, syrup of ipecac or another substance the poison control center recommends. Near your kit, keep a list of your pet's medications, a crate, and a muzzle. An injured, frightened pet may bite family members and loved ones, and you will need to keep yourself safe.
Install Emergency Apps
The Red Cross and ASPCA offer emergency pet apps to provide you vital information. The Red Cross has a Pet First Aid app, while ASPCA has the Animal Poison Control Center app. Consider installing these on your phone for access to critical instructions.
Learn What to Do in an Emergency
The steps for treating an unresponsive pet are similar to the ones for humans. If your pet is not responding, remember ABC: Airway, Breathing and Circulation.
Check your pet's airway for blockage. If something is in the mouth or throat, do a finger sweep or the Heimlich maneuver to clear the airway. Check for a heartbeat. If any of the ABCs are compromised, start CPR. Control bleeding with a compress and splint broken bones. Call for help and get your pet to an emergency clinic.
Take Advantage of American Red Cross Pet First Aid Awareness Month
Take some time this month to learn about pet first aid and safety. If you need to restock your pet's medication, food, or other supplies, contact us at Pet Hospitals of Hawaii, and we can help you stay prepared.
Waipahu Waikele
Kailua
Pet Specialists of Hawaii
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