Be Prepared: National Pet First Aid Awareness Month
It’s National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, a time dedicated to helping pet owners understand how to respond in an emergency. While most of us know the basics of human first aid, many pet parents are unsure what to do if their dog eats something toxic, their cat breaks a bone, or they notice sudden breathing issues.
That’s where we come in.
At High Desert Veterinary, we’re passionate about not only caring for your pets during office hours—but empowering you to care for them in those unexpected, critical moments before you can get to us. Knowing just a few simple first aid tips can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency.
Why Pet First Aid Matters
Just like with people, accidents can happen any time. Whether your pup gets into the trash or your cat is stung by a bee, quick thinking and fast action can minimize complications. Having a basic understanding of pet first aid can:
Reduce your pet’s pain or distress
Prevent the situation from getting worse
Potentially save your pet’s life
While nothing replaces professional veterinary care, your response in the first few minutes of an emergency is crucial.
Common Pet Emergencies and What You Can Do
Here are a few of the most common situations we see at High Desert Veterinary—and what to do if you’re facing them at home:
1. Bleeding or Wounds
If your pet has a visible wound or is bleeding:
Muzzle your pet if they’re in pain and might bite.
Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth or gauze.
Keep the wound elevated if possible.
Do not use human ointments or medications—call us immediately.
2. Choking
If your pet is coughing excessively, pawing at their mouth, or unable to breathe:
Check the mouth carefully (only if it’s safe) and remove any visible object.
If you can’t dislodge it, try giving a sharp blow between the shoulder blades.
If your pet is still choking, call us and get to the clinic right away.
3. Heatstroke
Especially in spring and summer, overheating can happen fast—especially in dogs.
Move your pet to a shaded or air-conditioned space.
Offer small sips of water (not ice water).
Wet their paws and ears with cool—not cold—water.
Call us immediately for next steps.
4. Ingestion of Toxins
Chocolate, grapes, lilies, human medication—many common household items are toxic to pets.
Don’t wait for symptoms.
Call us or the Pet Poison Helpline right away.
Don’t induce vomiting unless we tell you to—some substances cause more harm on the way back up.
Build a Pet First Aid Kit
Every pet parent should have a stocked pet first aid kit at home and in the car. Here’s what we recommend including:
Gauze rolls and pads
Non-stick bandages
Tweezers
Digital thermometer
Saline solution
Benadryl (only with vet guidance!)
Hydrogen peroxide (for wound cleaning—not to induce vomiting without advice)
Muzzle (because scared pets may bite)
Your veterinarian’s phone number (hi, that’s us!)
A copy of your pet’s medical records
We’re happy to help you customize your kit based on your pet’s specific needs—just ask next time you’re in.
When in Doubt, Call Us
The golden rule: if you’re ever unsure, give us a call. It’s always better to ask than to wait and worry. Whether it’s a routine checkup or something more urgent, we’re here for you—your pet’s best friend, right after you.
Pet first aid doesn’t mean replacing the vet—it means helping your pet get to us safely and quickly.
Let’s keep our furry family members safe, together.
If you ever need advice, reassurance, or an emergency appointment—High Desert Veterinary is here for you. Call us, message us, or stop by. We’re here for you and your pet family.
