How To Handle Pet Emergencies - Veterinarian In Tampa Bay Area Gives Pet Health Care Tips

How To Handle Pet Emergencies - Veterinarian In Tampa Bay Area Gives Pet Health Care Tips

Your pet can have an emergency at any time. “Preparing ahead of time is one of the smartest and best things you can do for your dog or cat,” said Dr. Al Paredes, a veterinarian in Palm Harbor Florida. Preparing and keeping a pet first aid kit handy in each place your pet may be could save its life. Minimally keep a basic first aid kit handy in the home and another one in the car when your pet is traveling with you.

A basic first-aid kit will help reduce worries if an unexpected emergency occurs. Keep the perishable items in the kit fresh; check the code dates on thing such as salves and cleansers every few months to ensure that the are not past the expiration date for efficacy.

First aid kits can be assembled in a metal or plastic toolbox or tackle box, and supplies can be purchased in a variety of places, including your veterinary clinic. Be sure and label the kit as one for your pets. And on the inside of the lid list the names and phone numbers of:

1. you as the owner,

2. your pet’s name, age and description,

3. your regular veterinarian and pet clinic,

4. an emergency animal clinic that is close to your home, and

5. the animal poison control hotline (888) 426-4435.

Suggestions for First Aid for Dogs and Cats

• Swabs, cotton applicators, gauze and vetrap
• Scissors, tweezers, towel, exam gloves
• Hydrogen peroxide, Hydrocortisone ointment, silver nitrate
• Eyewash, hydration fluid
• Splints, plastic wrap
• Instant hot and cold compresses
• Thermometer and lubricating jelly

Ask your veterinarian for any special items that your dog or cat may need for a current or chronic condition to keep in your emergency first aid kit.

For more information about what we can do for your pet, see the resource box at the bottom of this article.

Thank you pet owners,

Dr. Al Paredes - Palm Harbor FL Vet