First Aid for your Best Friend

Most of us will never have a medical emergency with our ESA that requires us to provide first aid. but knowing pet first aid can mean the difference between life and death if you ever find yourself in this situation.

1. We recommend first aid training for you and your specific animal and situation.  First aid classes can sometimes be offered through local veterinary clinics, so start by checking with them.  There are different types of first aid such as drowning, choking, cardiac, wound care, rattlesnake bites, and more.
2. When your dog has suffered a trauma, such as choking or drowning, you will need to check if they are breathing and for a heartbeat.   You can feel for a heartbeat by placing your fingers about 2 inches behind the dog's elbow in the middle of its chest.
3. It is important to know your dog's weight and the specific instructions per your dog's weight, when performing canine CPR.
4. If your dog's heart is beating but he isn't breathing, you can give him mouth-to-mouth.
5. To give mouth-to-mouth, extend the dog's head and neck. Hold the dog's mouth and lips closed then blow firmly into its nostrils. Administer 1 breath every 3 to 5 seconds. Take a deep breath and repeat until you feel resistance or see the chest rise.