First Aid Advice

• If your pet is involved in an accident, as long as he or she is not trapped, firstly try and lie or roll them onto a blanket and remove them from the road to a warm place. REMEMBER an injured animal may be frightened and in shock so approach them in a calm and reassuring manner.
• If there is bleeding from a wound, keep calm and try to apply pressure to the area to stop the bleeding. This is best achieved using a bandage, but if you don't have one available improvise with a tea towel or a piece of clothing. Try to keep your pet calm.
• If your pet has a fit and has never had one before it is likely that he or she is suffering from epilepsy. Don't panic, usually they recover very rapidly and should be left quietly until the fit passes. DO NOT touch your pet or put your fingers near his or her mouth. Remove any objects which could an injury. Keep lights low and the room quiet to avoid any stimulation. Reassurance may be given once your pet is up and pacing around again. You will need to ring the surgery if the fit lasts for more than 10 minutes, if the pet has several fits in succession, or if this is your pet's first fit.

• If you suspect that your pet has ingested a poison, remove them from the source of the poisoning and, if possible, find out what the poison was so that you can tell the vet.

  Do not induce vomiting unless recommended to do so. If your pet has a substance on his or her coat, prevent them from licking it and wash them in a mild soap, or Swarfega, and rinse well.

• IN ALL EMERGENCY SITUATIONS contact your vet for advice.
• Always telephone the vet before going to the surgery so that they are aware of the situation.
• Always be aware of the safety of yourself and others around you.
• STAY CALM.