First Aid Tips for Dogs and Cats

Your pet’s health and safety are a priority, and knowing how to respond in an emergency can make all the difference. Whether you're a dog owner, cat owner, pet sitter, or groomer, this guide will answer the most frequently asked questions about pet first aid and CPR.

If you’re ready to take the next step, consider enrolling in the First Aid for Dogs and Cats online course offered by the Canadian Red Cross to get certified and gain confidence in caring for your furry friends.

How to Do CPR on a Dog or Cat

Dog and cat CPR can be lifesaving in emergencies where your pet’s heart or breathing has stopped. Here’s how to perform it:

For cats and small dogs (less than 15 pounds):

When performing chest compressions, use a one-handed technique by wrapping your hand around the sternum at the level of the heart with your thumb on the upper side and the rest of the fingers below.

For medium to large round-chested dogs (Retrievers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, etc.):

Use a two-handed technique by placing one hand over the other, with the heel of the hand directly over the heart. Lock the elbows and compress 1/3 to 1/2 the width of the chest. Ensure the chest fully recoils before compressing again.

For medium to large deep-, narrow-, keel-chested dogs (Greyhounds, Doberman Pinschers, etc.):

Adopt the two-handed technique and place the heel of the hand directly over the heart. Lock the elbows and compress 1/3 to 1/2 the width of the chest, making sure the chest fully recoils before compressing again.

For barrel-, flat-chested dogs (Boston Terriers, Pugs, French Bulldogs, etc.):

Place the dog on its back and use the two-handed technique with the heel of the hand on the highest part of the sternum. Lock the elbows and compress 1/3 to 1/2 the width of the chest, ensuring the chest fully recoils before compressing again.

After chest compressions, perform cycles of 30 compressions and 2 rescue breaths at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Gently close the pet’s mouth and extend the neck to open the airway. Cover the nose with your mouth and exhale until you see the pet’s chest rise, giving a rescue breath over 1 second.

Please remember to briefly check for a heartbeat and spontaneous breathing every 2 minutes. Being prepared to administer CPR to your pet in an emergency could make a life-saving difference.

Why Should You Know Basic First Aid for Your Pet?

Knowing basic first aid for your dog or cat can help you respond quickly in emergencies, potentially saving your pet’s life. Whether it’s a minor injury or a critical situation, the skills you learn in a pet first aid course will help you stay calm and provide the best care for your furry friend.

How to Get Pet CPR and First Aid Training

To get certified in pet CPR and first aid, enroll in a reputable course like the Canadian Red Cross First Aid for Dogs and Cats course. This online course is designed to teach you everything you need to know about caring for your dogs and cats in emergencies.

Who Do You Call if You Have a Pet Emergency?

In a pet emergency, the first step is to contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency animal clinic. Some regions also have a dedicated animal poison control center for poisoning emergencies. Do not call 911 as they typically do not handle pet-related emergencies.

Can I Call 911 for a Pet Emergency?

No, 911 is not equipped to handle pet emergencies. Instead, contact your vet or the nearest emergency animal clinic. Keep their numbers handy in your pet first aid kit for quick access.

What Basic First Aid Would You Apply to a Dog or Cat Choking?

If your dog or cat is choking, follow these steps:

Check the Mouth: Open your pet’s mouth and look for the object.
Remove the Object if Visible: Try to remove the object from your pet's mouth by opening the mouth and pulling the tongue forward. Use your finger to sweep the insides of the mouth to dislodge the object. Be careful not to push the object further back and be cautious not to get bitten.
Perform 5 rapid abdominal thrusts by standing behind your pet or lifting them with their spine against your chest, wrapping your arms under their ribs, making a fist with one hand, and placing your other hand over it. Lift inward and upward to deliver the thrusts.
If the object does not come out, try suspending the pet by the hips with the head hanging down or lift their hind legs. Use the palm of your hand to give 5 sharp blows between their shoulder blades. After each step, check the mouth for the object if it has not come out.
Seek Veterinary Care Immediately: If your pet has stopped breathing, give rescue breaths while heading to the veterinary hospital. Monitor the heartbeat and start chest compressions if necessary.

How to Perform CPR on Your Pet in a State of Emergency

Performing CPR on your pet involves checking for breathing and a heartbeat, doing chest compressions, and giving rescue breaths, as outlined in the CPR steps above. Enrolling in a pet first aid course will give you hands-on experience and confidence in performing these lifesaving techniques.

Is First Aid Training Necessary for Dogs and Cats Like It Is for Humans?

Yes, getting trained in first aid for dogs and cats is just as crucial as learning first aid for humans. Emergencies can happen anytime, and knowing how to respond can save your pet’s life. The Canadian Red Cross First Aid for Dogs and Cats course covers essential skills for both dogs and cats.

What Should Be Included in a Pet's First Aid Kit?

A pet first aid kit should include:

Bandages and gauze
Tweezers
Digital thermometer
Scissors
Antiseptic wipes
Muzzle (to prevent biting during treatment)
A blanket (for warmth)

How to Get the Experience Needed to Be a House or Pet Sitter?

To become a house or pet sitter, gaining experience is key. Start by offering your services to friends or family. Taking a pet first aid course will also enhance your qualifications, giving pet owners confidence in your ability to care for their pets.

How to Successfully Become a Dog Walker and Pet Sitter?

To become a successful dog walker and pet sitter:

Get Certified: Enroll in a pet first aid class to gain essential skills for caring for dogs and cats.
Build Experience: Start by volunteering or working part-time with pets.
Market Yourself: Create profiles on pet sitting platforms and ask for client reviews.
Be Reliable: Consistency and trustworthiness are key to building a successful business.

Ready to Protect Your Pets?

Sign up today for the Canadian Red Cross First Aid for Dogs and Cats online course. Gain the knowledge and confidence to handle any pet emergency, ensuring your furry friends are always safe and well-cared for.