First aid is the first treatment given when presented with an injury or traumatic episode.  We all hope that our pets will never be in this situation where it is needed, however, the preparation of a first aid kit and some tips on how to handle situations may make dealing with an emergency much easier.

Basic first aid kit

Here is a list of some useful items to include in your first aid kit:-

• Thin rubber/latex gloves
• Cotton wool
• Cotton buds
• Tea towel
• A pair of scissors
• A pair of tweezers
• Antiseptic solution
• Plus bandaging material and sticky tape

If you are someone who does a lot of walking with your dogs it may pay to have a small kit to take with you.  This could also include a small bottle of saline or water for wound flushing.

Cuts and Tears

These may vary from small superficial skin tears with little blood to larger gashes that require stitching.  Basic examination of the wound will help you decide what to do.

• Trim away any hair that is covering the wound
• Flush well with a good amount of warm water or saline (to remove any dust or debris)
• Apply a light bandage or dressing if possible to minimise further contamination.
• Bleeding wounds
• Some deep wounds or those on ears or tails may bleed profusely.  The most important to do here is to apply pressure.
• For severe wounds where a lot of blood is being lost use a tea towel to create a firm pad.  This can be bandaged firmly onto the wound and should not be removed until you reach the vets.
• Ears – a head bandage can be applied, alternatively, use something to hold the ear firmly to the head to stop repeated flapping and give time for a clot to form.
• Tails – lots of tape is often required to hold these in place.

Sometimes wounds that appear small, for example a puncture wound caused by a bit may be significantly contaminated by bacteria.  There may be tissue damage beneath the skin that requires treatment.

Seizures

Although these may seem very frightening when they occur it is very important you remain calm.

• Reduce any external stimuli if possible, such as loud noises or bright lights.
• Many animals may lose control of bladder or bowel function during a fit.
• Do not attempt to try and clear an airway you may get bitten.
• Reassure your pet whilst the seizure is happening, talk quietly and calmly.

Eyes

Foreign bodies in eyes are not uncommon, the eye may be held shut or be swollen sometimes with discharge.

• Try bathing the eye gently with some cotton wool and warm water to remove any discharge.
• Part the lids carefully to see if there is any debris to be removed, such as grass seed.
• Flushing with warm water may help dislodge the item.

If the eye remains closed for anytime afterwards or you are unable to find a casue of the problem consult your vet.  It’s worth consulting your vet where an eye injury is concerned as there maybe a scratch or ulcer on the eye.

Golden Rules

• Be prepared – keep your first aid kit organised and up to date.
• Try not to panic at the first sight of a problem, try and remain calm and be logical in your approach
• Know when to seek further help – minor problems  may oftem  be dealt with  at home but if in any doubt consult your vet.

In an out of hours emergency you will speak directly to one of our veterinary team, not a call centre.  St Boniface Vets is committed to providing you and your pet with quality veterinary care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  If you have any concerns over the Christmas period, please call 01363 772860 and select Option 1.  You will then connect straight through to our duty vet.