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General Emergency and Trauma Care
A well-organized approach and prepared team can significantly improve pet outcomes in emergencies and trauma situations.
General Emergency and Trauma Care
Veterinary Services
Emergency & Trauma Care
A well-organized approach and prepared team can significantly improve pet outcomes in emergencies and trauma situations.
Urgent CareTrauma SupportCall First
Quick Reference
Step-by-Step Guidance
Initial assessment
- Check for responsiveness: Gently shake or call your pet.
- Breathing and pulse: Check if the pet is breathing and has a pulse. If not, begin CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation).
CPR for Pets
- Airway: Ensure the airway is clear. Remove any obstructions.
- Breathing: Give rescue breaths (small dogs and cats: cover the nose and mouth; larger dogs: cover only the nose).
- Circulation: Perform chest compressions.
Control Bleeding
- Direct pressure: Apply a clean cloth or gauze over the wound and press firmly.
- Elevate: If possible, elevate the injured area above the heart.
- Tourniquet: Use as a last resort for severe limb bleeding.
Fractures and Sprains
- Stabilize: Immobilize the injured area with a splint or padded bandage.
- Transport carefully: Minimize movement of the injured limb.
Poisoning
- Identify the toxin: Note any substances the pet may have ingested.
- Contact a vet or poison control: Immediately seek professional guidance.
- Induce vomiting: Only if instructed by a veterinarian.
Heatstroke
- Move to a cool area: Immediately get the pet out of the heat.
- Cool down: Use cool (not cold) water to lower body temperature gradually.
- Offer water: Encourage drinking small amounts of cool water.
Seizures
- Prevent injury: Clear the area of objects that might hurt the pet.
- Time of the seizure: Note the duration and any triggering factors.
- Do not restrain: Allow the seizure to run its course, then comfort the pet.
Burns and Scalds
- Cool the burn: Rinse the area with cool water for at least 10 minutes.
- Cover the burn: Use a clean, non-stick dressing or cloth.
- Seek veterinary care: Burns can be severe and need professional treatment.
Choking
- Mouth sweep: Carefully open the mouth and remove any visible obstruction.
- Heimlich maneuver: For dogs, compress the abdomen just behind the ribs. For cats, use gentle pressure.
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Whether you need a routine checkup or have questions about your pet's care, our team in Newhall is here to help.