Are you prepared to handle an emergency situation involving your pets? While we hope that you never have a pet emergency, a little preparation can go a long way in helping you have the confidence that you need to handle any pet-related crisis that may come your way.

Take some time to prepare yourself just in case your pet ever needs your help. You pet, and your future self, will thank you.

Put Together a Pet First-Aid Kit

Having the necessary supplies can be extremely helpful when dealing with pet emergencies. Putting together a small pet first-aid kit for your home and car can be very valuable, and save you precious time when it matters the most. A small tackle or tool box works perfectly for this purpose.

Be sure to include:

There are certain medications and special supplies that can be handy as well. Just ask us at your pet’s next visit, and we’ll let you know what is right for your pet, as well as the proper dosage amounts for any over-the-counter medications that are safe for your specific pet (and his or her health conditions).

Know How to Monitor Your Pet

All pet owners should understand how to take their pet’s vital signs. These include heart rate, respiration rate, and temperature.

Knowing what is normal in a healthy pet can be important in assessing and stabilizing your pet. Have us demonstrate how to take your pet’s vital signs or check out an online resource.

It can also be helpful to learn pet CPR. The American Red Cross facilities offer pet first-aid courses to the public, which can be very helpful when it comes to helping your pet in an emergency situation.

Have a Plan for a Pet Emergency

Know what steps you need to take will help you to act in a cool, collected manner. It should include making sure that everyone involved is safe as well as how you will assess if help is needed.

It is also important to know who you will call in a pet emergency. Put together a list of phone numbers that includes your regular, emergency veterinarian, animal poison control, and any other parties you may need to contact in the case of an emergency.

Program our phone number in your phone and have it written down in your home. Also consider downloading the American Red Cross Pet First-Aid App for helpful tips, especially if you’re on the go. If possible you should always call us when you are on your way with an emergency so that we can be more adequately prepared for your arrival.

Like it or not, most of us will deal with a pet emergency at some point. Eventually you may need a bandage, topical medication, or other item to help your pet. With a little planning you can ensure that your pet has the best possible outcome even in the worst of situations.