Emergencies can happen anytime, and as pet owners, we need to be prepared. Whether it’s a cut paw, choking, a seizure, or a sudden collapse, knowing basic pet first aid can make all the difference in saving your pet’s life before reaching the vet.
This guide will walk you through essential first aid tips, including how to handle common pet emergencies, what to keep in a pet first aid kit, and when to seek veterinary care.
Remember, pet first aid is only a temporary measure—always seek veterinary emergency care as soon as possible for proper treatment.
We hope you never need an emergency vet, but if you do, Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital in Surrey is open 24/7—walk-ins welcome. We are VECCS Level I certified and capable of handling even the most critical emergencies and trauma, with specialists on staff and on call to handle even the most life-threatening situations.
What Is a Pet Emergency?
A pet emergency is anything that has you worried about your pet’s health. Some of the most common emergencies we see include:
- Trauma: Hit by a car, falling from a height, dog fights, or wildlife attacks
- Respiratory distress: Gasping, blue gums, labored breathing
- Poisoning or toxin ingestion: Chocolate, grapes, medications, rodenticides
- Seizures: Shaking, twitching, loss of control
- Vomiting and diarrhea: Especially if persistent, bloody, or accompanied by weakness
- Heatstroke: Overheating, excessive panting, collapse
- Bloat (GDV) in dogs: Swollen abdomen, unproductive retching, restlessness
- Urinary blockage in male cats: Straining, vocalizing in the litter box
- Severe bleeding or deep wounds
If you notice any of these signs, seek veterinary care immediately.
Be Ready with a Pet First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit can help you respond quickly and calmly in an emergency. For a complete list of supplies, visit our Pet First Aid Kit blog post, but here are some essentials:
Basic Supplies
- Gauze and vet wrap for bandaging
- Tape and scissors
- Antiseptic wipes (avoid alcohol)
- Gloves
- Thermometer (normal temp: 101–102.5°F)
Medications and Solutions
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%) – for inducing vomiting only under veterinary direction
- Benadryl (diphenhydramine) – for allergic reactions (2mg/kg every 8 hours)
- Corn syrup or honey – for low blood sugar episodes
- Saline solution – to flush eyes or wounds
Important Reminders
- Never induce vomiting without speaking to a veterinarian first
- Do not use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol on open wounds
How to Handle Common Pet Emergencies
Poisoning and Toxin Ingestion
Common household toxins include chocolate, grapes/raisins, onions, human medications, and rodenticides. If you suspect ingestion:
- Call your veterinarian or ASPCA Poison Control: 888-426-4435
- Only induce vomiting if directed to do so
- Never attempt vomiting if your pet ingested a caustic substance
Choking
If your pet is pawing at their mouth, gagging, or struggling to breathe:
- Open their mouth and check for visible obstructions
- Carefully remove visible objects with tweezers—do not push further in
- If necessary, perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver)
- Seek immediate veterinary help
Seizures
If your pet has a seizure:
- Keep the environment quiet and remove obstacles
- Do not touch their mouth
- After the seizure, monitor for breathing and activity
- Seek emergency care if the seizure lasts more than two minutes
Bleeding and Wounds
For cuts, torn nails, or trauma:
- Apply direct pressure for 5 minutes
- Use cornstarch or silver nitrate for nail injuries
- Flush wounds with saline or chlorhexidine
- Wrap the wound with clean gauze and vet wrap
Seek immediate care if:
- Bleeding doesn’t stop within 5–10 minutes
- The wound is deep or gaping
- Your pet shows signs of severe pain or shock
Heatstroke
Short-nosed breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) are especially vulnerable. Signs include heavy panting, red gums, and collapse. (see blog on heatstroke here)
- Move your pet to a cool area
- Apply cool (not cold) water to their belly and paws
- Offer small amounts of water
- Go to the vet immediately
CPR for Pets
If your pet isn’t breathing and has no pulse:
- Check the airway
- Give rescue breaths (16–20 breaths/min)
- Begin chest compressions
- Small pets: One-handed compressions at 120/min
- Large pets: Two-handed compressions at 100/min
- Continue until breathing resumes or emergency help arrives
Final Thoughts: Stay Calm, Act Fast
Emergencies are stressful—but staying calm, having a plan, and knowing basic first aid can save your pet’s life. Here’s how you can prepare:
- Keep a pet first aid kit at home and in your car
- Save your vet’s number and Poison Control contact info
- Know the signs of serious illness or injury
- Familiarize yourself with your nearest 24/7 emergency hospital
When in doubt, call your vet or head to BBVSH Surrey—we’re here to help, any time of day or night.
Adapted from original presentation by Sarah Charney, DVM, DACVIM, DACVR
