Accidents

As with children and adults there are many types of accidents that may happen to your pet. Below are some guidelines. In all cases call us immediately and bring your pet to the clinic: prompt action can avoid unnecessary suffering for your pet.

• Burns:
  For minor burns apply a cold water followed by ice. For serious burns where the skin has been ruptured cover the area with a cool damp synthetic (non sticking) cloth and bring to the clinic immediately. Do not use creams or ointments on the burnt area as the risk of infection is serious.
• Hit by a Vehicle:
  If your pet sustains an injury on the road, no matter how slight it should be seen. Many road injuries are revealed as more serious as your pet comes out of shock. Keep your pet warm en route: report the color of its gums. We will need to check for internal hemorrhaging, broken bones and shock.
• Broken Bones:
  All pets suspected of broken bones should be checked by a veterinarian and x-rayed. Try not to move your pet unnecessarily - transport on a solid material so as not to move the bones.
• Choking:
  If your pet chokes you can try two things:
  1. Open its jaw and try to remove anything lodged in the jaw or upper throat. Please be careful to avoid being bitten.
  2. If this is unsuccessful hold your pet from behind just below the ribs and exert pressure quickly.
  3. If this does not work rush your pet to the nearest veterinarian.
• Electric Shock:
  Keep all electrical cords out of reach of all pets: should your pet receive an electrical shock carefully remove the wire away from it with a wooden object and then bring to the clinic immediately.
• Swallowed Objects:
  All cats and dogs, especially kittens and puppies will ingest things totally inappropriate for them: we have removed everything from kitchen knives to balls of string from their intestines. What to do? If you know or suspect that your pet has eaten something foreign call us immediately for advice. Do not induce vomiting. Be particularly careful of the following objects: aluminum foil, balls (ping pong, golf or anything that could get stuck in your pet's throat) chicken bones, electric wires, needle and thread, panty hose, plastic bags, super glue and toys.