Pacing back and forth, a deep-chested poodle shows signs of restlessness as it’s attempting to vomit. With nothing coming out and rapid breathing, the poodle continues to become weak with grey gums and abdominal distension. If you guessed bloat is occurring, or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), you would be correct. Bloat is known to kill 30% of dogs that develop this medical emergency and especially in deep-chested dogs such as Greyhounds, Great Danes, Dobermans, and German Shepherds.

April has been designated as Pet First Aid Awareness Month and it is important to be prepared for pet emergencies, including bloat. Pet parents should also know why pet first aid knowledge is crucial, common emergencies pet parents should be aware of including building a basic kit, what key pet first aid skills every pet parent should know, and how to be prepared for pet first aid month. 

Why Education in Pet First Aid is Critical

Having the skills to act quickly increases the chance of survival. Owning pets can be unpredictable and sometimes include unexpected emergencies. Just like humans, pets experience injuries and medical complications. Having basic medical knowledge of common emergencies and how to attend to them can help stabilize a pet until a veterinarian can intervene.  

Common Emergencies Pet Parents Should Be Aware Of

• Poisoning - Pets can ingest all sorts of things they shouldn't, from household cleaners and medications to certain foods like chocolate or grapes, and even some plants. Symptoms can vary widely depending on the poison but can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, tremors, or difficulty breathing. 

• Heatstroke - Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, rapid heartbeat, and even collapse. Prevention is key: never leave your pet in a parked car, provide plenty of fresh water and shade, and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day.

• Bloat (especially in large, deep-chested dogs) - The stomach fills with gas and can then twist, cutting off blood supply. Symptoms can include restlessness, pacing, unproductive retching, a distended abdomen, and difficulty breathing.

• Allergic reactions - Pets can have allergic reactions to various things, such as insect bites, food, medications, or environmental allergens. Reactions can range from mild skin irritation and itching to severe symptoms like facial swelling, difficulty breathing, and collapse (anaphylaxis).

• Seizures - Seizures can be caused by various underlying medical conditions, including epilepsy, toxins, brain tumors, or metabolic issues. They can manifest as uncontrolled shaking, loss of consciousness, drooling, and paddling of the limbs. While a single, brief seizure might not always be an immediate emergency, multiple seizures or a seizure lasting more than a few minutes warrants immediate veterinary care. It's helpful to note the time the seizure started and how long it lasts to share with your vet.

• Injuries - Trauma from car accidents, falls, or fights with other animals can lead to serious internal or external injuries. Signs might include obvious wounds, lameness, pain, difficulty breathing, or pale gums.

Building a Pet First Aid Kit: Having a well-stocked pet first aid kit readily available is essential. At a bare minimum, the following should be included:

• Absorbent gauze pads

• Adhesive tape

• Antiseptic wipes or solution

• Petroleum jelly

• Digital thermometer

• Tweezers

• Blunt-tipped scissors

• Emergency blanket

• Muzzle (use with caution if your pet is in pain and might bite)

• Your veterinarian's contact information and the number for the nearest emergency clinic

• Pet Poison Helpline number

Important Pet First Aid Skills Every Pet Parent Should Know

Recognizing normal versus abnormal, especially in the case of deep chested dogs, can help reduce any delay in treatment. Understanding your pet’s baseline vital signs can determine what to focus on when time is limited for treatment. This includes how often your pet breathes, heart rate, temperature, and even behavior. 

Respiratory Rate: When your pet is resting, count the number of breaths (one inhale and one exhale) over one minute. Normal rates vary by species and size but generally fall between 15-30 breaths per minute for and cats. Listen and watch for any increased effort or noise when breathing. 

Heart Rate/Pulse: For dogs and cats, you can often feel the pulse on the inside of their rear leg, in the upper thigh area. Count the number of beats you feel over one minute. Normal resting heart rates generally range from 100-140 bpm for small dogs, 60-100 bpm for large dogs and 160-220 bpm for cats. Note if the pulse is weak, very rapid, or irregular. 

Temperature: The most accurate way to take your pet's temperature is rectally using a digital thermometer lubricated with petroleum jelly. Normal body temperature for dogs and cats is between 100.0°F and 102.5°F (37.8°C and 39.2°C). 

Capillary Refill Time (CRT): This assesses blood circulation. Gently press on their gums until they briefly turn pale. Release and count how long it takes for the color to return. Normal CRT is usually less than 2 seconds. A prolonged CRT can indicate poor circulation or dehydration. 

Behavior/Mentation: Pay attention to your pet's normal level of alertness, responsiveness, and activity. Any significant changes in their behavior, such as lethargy, disorientation, or unresponsiveness, can be a sign of a problem.

NAPPS Certification Course includes pet first aid material affiliated with the Red Cross and goes into greater detail on checking vital signs, basic wound care and controlling bleeding, CPR and rescue breathing, and recognizing signs of emergencies such as bloat. National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) also includes reference materials that consist of plants that are toxic, acidic and alkalotic sources, and what actions to take for these encounters. 

What Steps Pet Parents Should Take During Pet First Aid Month

• Determine what is considered normal for your pet and have them looked over by a veterinarian. 

• Obtain vaccination records and make sure they are up to date. This is especially important during an evacuation. Keep your veterinarian’s information and emergency contacts readily available. 

• Enroll in a Pet First Aid and CPR Course

• Practice basic skills after completing the Pet First Aid Course through NAPPS.

• Download a Pet First Aid App

• Create a Pet First Aid Kit

This April, spend time educating yourself with the knowledge and resources to be your pet's first line of defense. By understanding common emergencies, assembling a first aid kit, and support from organizations like National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and the NAPPS Certification Course, you can significantly improve your companion's chances during critical moments. Take proactive steps today to be prepared.

Heather McLaren
Owner of Advanced Animal Transport