What would you do if your dog or car had an accident, got heatstroke, suffered a seizure, or ate a poisonous substance? If you aren't sure, you're not alone. Most pet owners don't know much about first aid for people, let alone first aid for a whole other species.

In emergency situations, though, it's important to have a plan and to take action quickly. Knowing a few first aid tips for pets could mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.

6 First Aid Safety Tips for Pets

1. Keep a List of 24-Hour Emergency Veterinarians

In an emergency situation, every moment counts, and you need to contact an emergency veterinarian as soon as possible. The last thing you want to do is waste time looking for an emergency veterinary hospital. Instead, keep a list handy on your refrigerator, bookmarked in your browser, or taped to the front of a file with all of your pet's information.

2. Keep Your Pet Calm

Keeping your pet as calm and still as possible is important during an emergency – especially if your pet has sustained an injury or trauma.

3. Learn How to Safely Transport Your Pet

When handling and transporting your pet, you risk injuring them further. Learn how to safely handle an injured pet, so you're prepared or ask the emergency veterinarian for instruction when you're on the phone.

4. Get a First Aid Kit for Your Pet

Keep a pet first aid kit with basic supplies in your home, in your car, and in your pet's travel kit

5. Familiarize Yourself With Basic First Aid Procedures for Pets

Read up on some of the basic instructions for administering first aid to your pet. Keep in mind that instructions are different for different situations (i.e. broken bones, bleeding, burns, poisoning, seizures, heatstroke, shock, choking, etc.)

6. Take a Dog and Cat CPR Class

Did you know you can get trained and certified in administering life-saving CPR to dogs and cats? Sign up for a class online or find one offered locally in your community to learn this important skill.

Simplify Your Pet's Recovery With Compounded Medications

If your pet requires prescription medication during their recovery, we encourage you to ask your veterinarian about compounding your pet's medication at PetScript. We can put your pet's medicine into an easy-to-administer chewable treat, topical ointment, or another effective and simple form. To learn more, we welcome you to contact us today.