Five first-aid basics for pet owners

When something suddenly goes wrong, staying calm and doing the right thing first gives your pet an extra layer of protection. Remember: first aid is only a stopgap. It never replaces a vet.

1. Bleeding

• Press gently on the wound with clean gauze or a towel.
• If you can, raise the injured part a little.
• If the bleeding won't stop, go to the vet.

2. Sudden vomiting

• Hold off food for 12 hours and watch how alert your pet is.
• Keep them somewhere quiet with clean drinking water.
• If the vomiting continues, comes with diarrhoea, or your pet seems very low, see a vet soon.

3. Injured paw pad

• Check and clean the wound.
• Keep your pet from walking on it; a pet-safe ointment can protect it.
• If the wound is deep or swollen, see a vet.

4. Insect bites and stings

• Remove the sting if there is one, then clean the area. A cold compress helps with swelling.
• Watch for spreading swelling, trouble breathing or vomiting.
• If breathing gets fast or the swelling spreads, go to the vet now.

5. Swallowed something harmful

• Don't try to make your pet vomit.
• Keep the packaging or what's left of the item for the vet.
• Call a vet and get there quickly. The sooner, the less harm.