April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month

The American Red Cross has dedicated April as National Pet First Aid Awareness Month.  This is a good time to think about how we can be better prepared in case our pets have an emergency. No one expects or hopes to deal with a pet emergency, but it’s important to be prepared so you can remain calm and focused in any type of situation.

The Paws & Pals Staff is Red Cross Pet First Aid and CPR Certified. We take the safety of your pet very seriously and are prepared for any situation.

If you should have a home emergency here are 6 tips to be at your best in a worst-case scenario.

 

1. Pack a pet first-aid kit. Pack two first-aid safety kits, and keep one at home and one in your car. You can buy pre-assembled kits or put one together yourself. Here is a helpful link to the American Veterinary Association (AVMA.org) that offers basic first aid information: Pet first aid – Basic procedures

2. Have important phone numbers at your fingertips. Keep emergency phone numbers somewhere you can find them easily, so you can act quickly in an emergency. Along with your veterinarian’s contact information, you may also want to keep these nearby:

Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
Pet Poison Help Line: (800)-213-6680

3. Get a decal for your window in the event an emergency occurs while you are not at home. This decal will allow rescue personnel to know you have pets inside that may need attention.

4. Take a Pet CPR & First Aid Class- The American Red Cross offers pet first-aid classes.Paws & Pals has a Red Cross certified instructor on staff and will be offering a community Pet CPR and First Aid Class later this year.  Check our newsletter or web site for details.

5. Know where to go in case of emergency. Your regular veterinarian is a great resource if an emergency occurs during the day, but most general-practice veterinary clinics are closed on evenings and weekends. Emergency clinics are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Be sure to know where they are located.

Prior Lake Pet Hospital Urgent Care
952-447-2855

Affiliated Emergency Veterinary Service
Eden Prairie
952-942-8272
7717 Flying Cloud Drive
Eden Prairie, MN 55344

6. Finally, stay calm. Your pets will pick up on your excited state.

The American Red Cross offers a smart phone app with first aid tips and information for dogs and cats. Be prepared to act when your pet needs help!

The Red Cross Pet First Aid App

Remember that while first aid is not a substitute for veterinary care, however, taking quick action can save your pet’s life. Get your pet to your veterinarian after administering any first aid treatments at home.