Pet Tips: National Pet First Aid Awareness Month

DELMARVA – April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, aimed at helping pet owners recognize illnesses and injuries and how to help their furry friends.

Pet injuries and illnesses can be unpredictable and can cause a lot of stress, especially if it’s after hours. But, experts say not everything warrants emergency attention. Dr. Marianne Bailey with the Queenstown Veterinary Hospital says there are many things that can be treated at home initially. Bleeding that can be controlled or slowed by pressure or a light bandage around the area can wait until your vet opens the next day.

“Ultimately, a wound that’s bleeding isn’t necessarily an emergency where you’ve got to get to an emergency veterinarian.”

Another issue that doesn’t always require immediate attention is an upset stomach. But, if they can’t keep water down or they’re lethargic, they should be taken to an emergency vet as soon as possible.

As far as preparation for unforeseen emergencies, Dr. Bailey says there are a few things you should keep on hand. Hydrogen peroxide is a staple, as well as non-stick pads for use as bandages.

Dr. Bailey adds that pet owners should keep the Pet Poison Hotline handy, as it’s a great resource if your pet accidentally ingests something.

“They do charge a fee, but they start a case so that when you get to your vet, the vet pulls up the case number and it already has all the information about what they ate, how much, what the toxic dose was, and what the treatment is.”