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Showing posts with label POISONS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label POISONS. Show all posts



With the silly season quickly approaching, Pet Insurance Australia has a timely reminder of the dangers this time of year can signal for our pets.

"As the Christmas trees and decorations quickly become the staple in many homes around the country, sadly, some Australian pets will also succumb to the vet emergency trends for this time of year," Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says.

From the typical tick and flea infestations to the more interesting claims of dogs ingesting all sorts of goodies, Pet Insurance Australia does witness spikes in claims around the summer period that can leave pet owners in a frantic situation.

"During this time of year, pet owners must stay vigilant with their pet's safety needs," Crighton says. "It's vital you keep up with your preventative treatments, especially for ticks and fleas for those pets who suffer from flea allergies."

Pet Insurance Australia also advises pet owners intending to travel with their pets this holiday season to check if the area is prone to ticks and be prepared.

"Tick paralysis is a terrifying situation for the pet and the owner," she warns. "With the cost of living and the additional expenses of the festive season, prevention is much cheaper than the extensive costs associated with an emergency tick situation, not to mention the emotional toll of potentially losing your pet. A simple $50 tick treatment from your local pet supplies store will make your pet almost tick-proof for three months."

As of November 2023, Pet Insurance Australia claim data already shows a 900% plus increase in paralysis tick claims compared to the year's cooler months. Based on seasonal history, PIA expects elevated tick claim levels right through to February.

"But ask any vet, and you'll find the high-end costs some pet owners pay, out of their own pocket, for life-support ventilators and 24/7 care over a number of days to save their pet from a paralysis tick event, is eye-watering."

Being the time of year when entertaining is high on the agenda for many homes, dogs are also more at risk of foreign body ingestion of objects and toxins.

"We certainly see a big spike in claims for foreign body ingestion during the warmer months," Crighton says. "This can be due to a host of reasons including entertaining and not securing rubbish bins correctly, too many new and interesting items being left around – cue the tinsel."

Skewers, fishhooks, corn cobs, underwear and even puffer fish have been known to cause issues with dogs over the past year. During the festive season, chocolate and alcohol toxicity is also a problem. Overfeeding and feeding dangerous human foods, including nuts, lollies, high-fat foods such as butter, and other toxic foods, can also pose a problem for dogs.

"Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs and can be found in many sugar-free lollies the children might be enjoying over this period," Crighton says. "Being educated on the toxic foods that affect our pets can prevent many issues from occurring."

Dogs are also masters at finding food; some breeds are better at it than others! Young pups and dogs can also be ultra-curious when sniffing out something that can ultimately harm them. Keeping your pet in a safe area during entertaining or when you cannot supervise them is a simple way to keep them safe.

"It's just ensuring that people remember dogs are natural scavengers, and thinking that Rover simply won't eat it is incorrect," Crighton says. 
"It's always best to ensure that your pet does not have access to anything that can cause detrimental effects to their health and wellbeing."
Top Tips For Summer

  • Ensure bins are correctly secured and cannot be accessed by your dog.
  • Keep dogs away from entertaining situations when you cannot fully supervise them.
  • Encourage guests to refrain from feeding your pet.
  • Snap skewers into small pieces when putting them into the rubbish.
  • Do not feed your dog corn cobs.
  • Put signs up notifying guests you have a dog and to shut the gate.
  • Never leave chocolate or alcohol in reach of your pet.
  • Secure fishing tackle boxes and keep rods up high with hooks firmly attached.
  • Keep all chemicals, including gardening sprays and bait, secure and out of reach.
  • Train your pet to keep away from the Christmas tree.




"Dogs are curious in nature, especially young pups, and they have an incredible sense of smell," Crighton says. 

"Meaning, wrapping boxes of chocolate up and popping it under the tree could be a recipe for disaster. Some simple preparation can prevent many issues from occurring that could see your festive celebrations turning into a sad and tragic event."

MEDIA RELEASE, December 2023


Related Stories:

Beware the Tick Menace this Summer Season!




As the weather cools, the rodents come looking for a warm place to call home. This can lead to an influx of mice and rats entering domestic residents around Australia. 

Pet Insurance Australia issues a timely reminder about the dangers of rodent bait and how to prevent your pet from becoming seriously ill.

“As the cold weather strikes, the prevalence of mice in the home certainly increases,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “Understandably, many Australians will be looking for the quick fix option and utilising rodent baits, but as the demand increases to poison these unwanted critters, we also see an increase in the number of claims for toxicity in pets.”

Pet Insurance Australia certainly notices an uptrend in claims from May to August with another peak occurring during January – a possible indication that old forgotten baits have been dislodged and found by curious canines.

Hiding baits behind refrigerators, ovens, and garages may seem like a great idea. 

However, these baits can be easily moved by rodents and suddenly be easily accessible to your pet. It’s important for pet owners to understand that most rat bait poisonings occur after the bait has been hidden.

“We strongly advise that if you have a rodent issue in your home or pet-friendly workplace to call in the professionals,” she says.

“Accidental poisoning due to rat bait is a major problem around this time of year, and pet owners need to be vigilant to avoid disaster.”

Not only is it deadly to your pet, but it can also be incredibly costly, with a recent insurance claim for rodent bait toxicity in Australia reaching $17,653*!

“Rodenticide or commonly referred to as ‘rat bait,’ typically contains chemicals that are harmful to rodents, such as anticoagulants or other poisons,” Crighton says.





“However, when ingested by dogs, rat bait can have severe consequences and pose a significant risk to their health.”

Rodenticide poisoning in dogs can lead to internal bleeding, organ damage, neurological symptoms, such as seizures, tremors and paralysis, and respiratory distress.

“Because the rat poison is so readily available many pet owners do not understand the dangers they are placing their beloved companion animals in when simply throwing a bait under the refrigerator or behind the oven,” Crighton warns. “If this bait is moved and becomes available to your dog, chances are they will ingest it as many contain enticing smells that attract not only rats and mice – but also your beloved dog.”

Cats are also at risk; however, they do tend to have lower incidents of ingesting the bait. However, there is also the risk of your cat or dog ingesting a poisoned rodent.

“This can also lead to poisoning complications in pets,” Crighton says. “So, when it comes to the issue of rodents, the best solution is to call in the professionals who can safely set baits away from your pet or stick to the old fashion mouse trap.”

Pest experts also suggest ensuring your home is up to scratch before the cold weather hits and the mice and rats come looking for a warm and toasty environment to nest for the winter. Fixing any cracks and openings around the home, cutting back overhanging trees near your roof line, and cleaning up any pet food and scraps from outside. Keeping pet food stored in a sealed container is also recommended.

Rats can also pose a problem for pets when it comes to Leptospirosis. Leptospirosis is transmitted by rodents’ urine, with dogs picking up this disease by drinking from contaminated ponds and puddles.

“Ensuring you deal with a rat problem in the correct fashion is important for pets on many levels,” Crighton says. “If you have a serious rodent problem, chat with your veterinarian about a vaccination for Leptospirosis.”

Rat Bait Poisoning Symptoms:

✔️ Lethargy
✔️ Weakness
✔️ Loss of appetite
✔️ Vomiting
✔️ Diarrhoea
✔️ Pale gums
✔️ Increased thirst or urination
✔️ Jaundice

“If you suspect that your dog has ingested rat bait or any other toxic substance, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care,” Crighton recommends. “Prompt treatment can significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome for your pet.”

Top 10 Breeds affected by Rat Bait Poisoning:

The top breeds are typically Terrier types, those who love their nose, and working dogs! However, any dog can become a victim of bait poisoning. The 2022 claims data for PIA policies show, amongst the most commonly insured dogs, Terrier breeds are the most affected by rat poisoning.


* $17,653 is the highest “rodent bait” toxicity claim received in the last 12 months to 31/5/23, by PIA’s underwriter and policy administrator, PetSure.

MEDIA RELEASE, 16th June 2023

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What to do when your best friend isn’t well...

Ever wondered what to do if your beloved pet is showing some abnormal symptoms and what the cause is? On the eve of World Veterinary Day (April 29), Dr Louis Eramanis from SASH (Small Animal Specialist Hospital) guides us through some irregular symptoms and what pet owners should be aware of to help best support our dogs.

Working as an Emergency & Critical Care Specialist at SASH, Dr Louis specialises in treating the most unstable and time sensitive patients. Working in high intensity emergency rooms and intensive care units, he has extensive experience working on cases of snake envenomation, neurological emergencies, and respiratory failure among other things. 

Dr Louis highlighted for us those emergency situations that will always require immediate attention by a vet. 

How to Respond When your Dog:

#1. Has breathing difficulties, excessive panting, blue tongue/gums




If your dog is having trouble breathing, there can be a number of reasons for this. 

This can be seen with any number of lung and heart diseases, but also with general illness, tick paralysis, or heat stroke. 

First, check your dog’s tongue, the tongue and gums turn a nasty shade of blue when there is a lack of oxygen in the body. Patients require oxygen or sometimes life-saving intubation to stabilise whilst investigating the cause. It’s important to keep them calm and cool so it’s a good idea to turn on the aircon for the drive to the vet.

#2. Is bitten by a snake

Labrador Cooper spent time in ICU after
being bitten by a red-bellied black snake

During the warmer months, it’s important to be wary of snakes in the garden. If a snake bite is witnessed, a vet visit should not be delayed! There will be fewer venom effects if antivenom is given as soon as possible. 

Some dogs can show vomiting, diarrhoea, collapse and apparent recovery after being bitten; these patients still received a lethal dose of venom and require antivenom. 

Blood and urine tests can be run to test for lethal envenoming; any patient that develops symptoms should receive antivenom immediately.

#3. Is retching with a distended belly 

This is common in large breed deep-chested dogs (Dobermans, German Shepherds, Great Danes etc.) who can develop gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV) also known as canine bloat. 

This is a life-threatening disease caused by the stomach twisting upon itself and then ballooning up and causing circulatory shock and loss of blood flow to the stomach.

Typically taking place after your dog has had a big meal and has been running around, GDV can also occur at other times. Most dogs will become weak and collapse, and their belly very obviously gets larger and larger whilst the dog tries to vomit unsuccessfully, leading to unproductive retching. 

These dogs should be brought in immediately for rapid stabilisation and surgery if these symptoms are noted.

#4. Displays tremoring/seizures for more than 5 minutes



Epilepsy, brain disease or toxins can cause seizures or tremors. This can be extremely distressing to witness. Whether or not there is a history of seizures, muscle tremors, or convulsions for longer than 20 - 30 minutes can lead to heat stroke and brain swelling. 

If the seizures continue at home for more than 5 minutes, you should take your dog straight to the vet due to the risk of subsequent injury. Patients can hurt themselves, bite their tongues, and even bite their owners. Care should be taken when picking them up with towels placed underneath them on hard surfaces.

#5. Has ingested toxins

Buddy, the Cattle Dog made a full recovery
after ingesting toxic snail bait
In general, this includes animal bait, plants and gardening chemicals, recreational drugs and medications. Some toxins can cause symptoms quickly, whilst others can take a while to develop.

The sooner the patient is made to vomit, the less toxin can be absorbed by the body. Other treatments or antidotes may be recommended for certain poisons. 

If uncertain, then the Animal Poisons Hotline can be contacted on 1300 869 738 or visit their website for more information.


#6. Is in a coma/non-responsive/not breathing

If pets are not breathing and unresponsive, they should be taken straight to the vet. We can see this from paralysis (e.g. caused by a paralysis tick or snake bite), severe illness, coma, or they may be close to death. 

The first step is to remain calm to ensure you and your pet safely make it to the vet. If you have assistance, then mouth-to-snout CPR can be started in the car. Do not attempt to perform CPR if it delays your trip to the vet. 




Pets should be on their side to give 30 compressions followed by two brisk mouth-to-snout breaths. In large to medium breed dogs, both hands with your arms straight out are used to compress/push the chest to 1/3 - 1/2 its width; a decent amount of force is required. 

For smaller dogs and cats, use a single hand with the chest between your thumb and fingers. For mouth-to-snout breaths, both hands should be used to create a seal between your mouth and the pet's snout whilst holding the mouth closed.

It’s important to act quickly when you see your pet behaving abnormally and take action immediately. As pet owners, it’s critical to identify when your pet is under stress so that they can be treated. 

Whilst there are many things you can do to help your pet as first aid, the best action is always going to be taking them to your local vet or emergency hospital.

written by Dr Louis Mark Eramanis, Emergency & Critical Care Specialist at SASH Vets for Australian Dog Lover, April 2023 (all rights reserved).

About our writer:

Dr Louis Eramanis (BSc BVMS MVS MVSc MANZCVS (ECC) DipACVECC) is a completed his Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine & Surgery at Murdoch University, Perth before working in general practice, then as an emergency veterinarian around Western Australia. After undertaking an internship at the Queen Mother Hospital for Animals at the Royal Veterinary College in London, he returned to home soil to complete a residency in small animal emergency and critical care at U-Vet Werribee Animal Hospital, University of Melbourne. 

His Masters research characterised venom-induced consumption coagulopathy in tiger snake envenomed dogs. He attained membership of the emergency and critical care chapter of the ANZCVS and became a diplomate of American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care. Louis helped develop a critical care service in another busy Sydney referral hospital prior to joining SASH in 2022.

Louis enjoys a high-intensity emergency room particularly snake envenomation, neurological emergencies, respiratory failure and ultrasound in the emergency room. On the flip-side, the Criticalist Louis finds satisfaction in the detailed intricacies of a critically ill patient. He has a respectful appreciation of the kidneys, electrolyte derangements and mechanical ventilation. Whilst he finds any way to be involved in sick hospital patients, seeing them recover and walk out of the hospital always brings a smile to his face.

Between these endeavours, Louis can be found exploring the city, enjoying different cuisines, appreciating live music and spending money on Apple products! His dog Beau, and two cats, Saphira and Nymphadora Tonks, are with his family in Western Australia.

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Canine Bloat (GDV): Causes, Signs & Prevention







As the decorations go up, Pet Insurance Australia has some top tips to keep your pets safe this Christmas.

“It’s getting to that time of year again,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “As the Christmas trees go up, so does our pets’ chances of getting accidentally injured in all the celebrations.”

Here's a simple checklist of things to watch out for...

Tip #1 - O, Christmas Tree!




Now, we’re not saying don’t have one or that you have to hang it from the ceiling! 

One of the biggest complaints during the seasonal period is foreign body ingestion – in other words, Fido finding the array of Christmas decorations or presents under the tree too irresistible.

“It’s not uncommon to hear of dogs getting into trouble after ingesting Christmas decorations and gifts,” Crighton says. “If you have a pet that is partial to playing with the baubles or tinsel, it’s a good idea to section off your Christmas tree or pop the decorations up higher and out of reach.”





“Cats can also be a little adventurous when it comes to the Christmas tree,” Crighton says. “Most will just play with the hanging ornaments, while others may attempt to climb the entire tree.” If you are concerned that your cat may become injured, discouraging your cat from playing around the tree is recommended.

Other Christmas tree hazards to watch out for include:

  • possible tummy upsets after drinking stagnant Christmas tree water (it can be a breeding ground for bacteria).
  • electrocution is a risk if your pooch starts chewing the Christmas tree lights.
  • injury to the gut if glass ornaments are eaten from the tree.
  • tinsel and other decorations can cause an obstruction of the gut when eaten, resulting in the need for surgery.
  • gift wrappings aren't good for your pet's health, so after unwrapping the presents, quickly clean up any plastic, ribbons and bows that could strangle or be swallowed by your pet.
  • eating pine tree needles - whilst not toxic - can cause irritation to the gut and a very upset tummy. 

How to make your Christmas tree pet-friendly this year:

1. Cover or box around the tree stand so that your pets can’t drink the water.

2. Plastic cover encasing the electric cord of the lights.

3. Plastic or non breakable decorations only (no glass) 

4. Decorations secured in place so they can’t fall off or be easily pulled off

5. Place tinsel up high where it can’t be reached (or none!) 

6. Make sure your tree is stable and won’t be easily pushed over. Utilising baby gates around your Christmas tree can also prevent injuries.

Tip #2 - Foods & Treats Toxic for Dogs

Many dogs also present to veterinary clinics with stomach complaints over the festive season.

“It’s imperative that pet owners remind their guests about the foods that are toxic to dogs and cats and keep these out of reach at all times,” Crighton warns. “If you cannot supervise your pet during celebrations, it’s best to pop them into a safe room away from any dangers.”

Common problematic Christmas foods:




  • Chocolate
  • Alcoholic beverages - This is a no-brainer really but there is NO safe amount of alcohol for your dog to have. Effects will range from depression, difficulty walking, slow breathing, collapse and even possibly loss of life.
  • Macadamia Nuts
  • Walnuts
  • Stone fruit pips (no fruit platters!)
  • Sweets containing Xylitol 
  • Rawhide Treats / Toys - Rawhide is not a by-product of the meat industry. Rawhide is a by-product of the leather industry! It cannot be made without bleach and glue. If that wasn't bad enough, they regularly cause intestinal blockages, poisoning from chemical residue and choking! 
  • Corn cobs
  • Chewing gum
  • Dried vine fruits (sultanas, raisins, grapes etc. which means no plum pudding or Christmas cake!)
  • Avocados
  • Fatty foods (e.g. stuffing)

“Skewers from the family BBQ can also wreak havoc on your pet during Christmas celebrations,” Crighton says. “Keeping plates out of reach and correctly disposed of leftovers in a rubbish bin with a secure lid is important.”

Signs will depend on the food that has been eaten so if your dog has eaten something they shouldn’t have, you should speak to a veterinarian immediately. 

Tip #3 - Overindulgence



Just a little bit of ham can't hurt, right? Well, when given ten times that day a ‘little bit’ of ham becomes a big bit of ham!

Overindulgence can trigger gut pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, even pancreatitis (which can be deadly). Feeding cooked bones should also be avoided as these can cause gut obstructions and constipation requiring intervention. 

Be careful at BBQs - don’t let your dog be fed treats from the BBQ or leftovers from friends' plates. If you can’t ensure your guests will be restrained and not give in to your pleading dog's big lovely eyes, then you are better off to have your dog restrained safely either in the house or elsewhere. 

You need to take control here on behalf of your pooch, because really, would they ever say no?

Tip #4 - Holiday Plants


Popular Christmas plants and flowers such as poinsettias, amaryllis, lilies, hibiscus, Christmas cactus, berries, mistletoe and holly leaves are all poisonous to your pets. Make sure they are out of their reach, as consumption could result in illness or even death.

Tip #5 - Getting Dogs through Noise Phobia


Parties, fireworks and summer storms, it is no wonder this is a hard time of year for dogs who have a propensity to be anxious. 

Nobody knows your pets better than you do. Always observe your best friends closely and look for the subtle signs that they are unhappy or worried, and take action. 

"Think about areas where your pets can go to escape, feel safe and rest" says Sarah Campbell, President of PPGA (Pet Professional Guild Australia).

Create safe spaces

For dogs, this may be behind baby gates, puppy pens, crates or within a room. For cats, provide areas where they can get up high and hide if needed and make sure they have multiple escape options. Think about an outside enclosure for some outside chill out time.

Keeping them safe around visitors

Your pets may be used to your family, but additional new people, young children, noises and situations can be scary to your pet. In fear, they may feel trapped and this can lead to bites. Delta Dog Safe has great information at www.deltadogsafetas.org.au/resources/for-parents. Remember all interactions between children and dogs need to be supervised and it needs to be ACTIVE supervision. 

Some pets will need medication prescribed by their local veterinarian to get through the silly season unscathed.

Tip #6 - Batteries & Toys



Swallowed batteries can cause terrible sickness in dogs, ranging from an upset tummy, to burning their gut or a life-threatening obstruction! Given that batteries are a common addition to Christmas stocking fillers and under the tree, together with the inquisitive nature of our pets, please ensure they are kept well out of reach of your pooch. 

Many toys contain small plastic (squeakers!), rubber or metal parts that, if eaten by a dog, can cause choking and dangerous gastrointestinal blockage, requiring immediate surgery.

Tip #7. Be prepared

"Have your vet's and after hours vet's details in your phone and on the fridge. If away from home, find out who the nearest vet is and also take a pet first aid kit as well. Even consider taking a first aid course for pets to help you apply critical first aid care. Make sure you have plenty of their normal medication and food in stock. Also prepare for any emergency evacuations by having their travel crates, harnesses, bowls etc. ready to go. 

Make sure their microchip details are up to date and they have their collars and tags on. Take an up to date photo and keep on your phone in case they go missing." adds Sarah Campbell, PPGA President. 

With Christmas fast approaching, Pet Insurance Australia urges pet lovers to be mindful of their pets and the impact the silly season can have on their health and wellbeing. These simple steps can prevent a celebration from turning into an emergency.

Have a safe and very merry Christmas!

Related Topics:

The Dog ate what?



Did you know you can dispose of unwanted veterinary medicines responsibly? 

When it comes to discarding unused, unwanted or expired medicines, Australia is a nation of hoarders, according to a study from Griffith University.

The 2018 study “You don’t throw these things out: an exploration of medicines retention and disposal practices in Australian homes” concluded that many households don’t properly store or dispose of old medicines. 

Old and forgotten medicines are routinely kept in multiple locations around households. This creates risks for accidental ingestion by children and pets or decreased efficacy.

The same is true for veterinary medicines, says Animal Medicines Australia, the peak body for Australia’s animal health companies. Its premier pet report, Pets in Australia: a national survey of pets & people established Australia is a nation of pet lovers with 69% of households living with at least one pet.

Launching the Vet-Med Disposal Campaign to help veterinarians, farmers and pet owners dispose of medicines safely, AMA’s Executive Director Ben Stapley says greater consumer awareness of the risks of keeping expired medicines on the farm or at home is needed.

“Disposing of old, expired and unused medicines responsibly, whether for your human or animal family members, is essential to safeguarding your health and to protect the environment,” says Mr Stapley.

“There are several easy ways pet owners and farmers can safely and responsibly dispose of unwanted and old medicines.

“The Return Unwanted Medicines Project (the RUM Project) provides an easy, free avenue to clean out your kitchen, pantry and bathroom drawers,” says Mr Stapley.

“Firstly, read the labels on all those unused medicines and consider if your pet still needs them. Check the expiry date then place all unneeded meds in a bag or container for safe transport and return them to your local pharmacy, where your pharmacist will put them in a secure bin for disposal.”

Farmers looking to safely dispose of vet meds also have convenient disposal options at hand.



“Farmers tend to have larger quantities of vet meds to dispose of because of the size and number of their animals. Leftover medicines in one litre containers or less, can be disposed of at participating pharmacies in Australia through the RUM Project.

“Larger quantities in containers holding one litre or more may be eligible for Agsafe’s ClemClear® program, which is also free for products carrying the drumMUSTER logo.”

“As with human medicines, keeping expired vet meds in the home or on-farm for possible DIY diagnosis at a later date is never a good idea,” says Mr. Stapley.




“Self-diagnosing your pet, unless you are a trained veterinarian, can delay vital medical treatment your pet may need.”
“Similarly, using expired animal medicines may be ineffectual or even dangerous so if you have a sick animal, always consult your vet.”
And when it comes to those old veterinary medicines lying about the place, a good rule of thumb is if in doubt, dispose of it responsibly.”

For more information and to check eligibility criteria, please visit animalmedicines.org.au, www.chemclear.org.au, www.returnmed.com.au or talk to your local pharmacist.

MEDIA RELEASE, 22nd June 2022



April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month.  

Knowledge of pet first aid is not a replacement for veterinary care, but it can help you handle emergency situations by identifying problems early and to act on them quickly.

Being equipped, even with just the basics, can help any pet owner identify signs of health issues in their dogs or cats. As with humans, first aid knowledge can help save a pet’s life, reduce the potential for increased injury and promote fast recovery.

Here are some basic pet first aid tips for pet owners thanks to Dr Lachlan Campbell,  Head Veterinarian at Your Pet PA.

Every year, hundreds of dogs in Australia are involved in emergency situations which require first aid. The emergencies come in all forms: automobile accidents, bite wounds, burns, heatstroke, poisoning, seizures, and more. Knowing what to do in an emergency and/or a course in pet first aid could save your pet's life!

Recognising an Emergency

Your pet needs to see a vet as an emergency if they:

✔️ Aren’t breathing or are having difficulty breathing

✔️ Are unresponsive

✔️ May have broken bones

✔️ Are having a fit/seizure that is not stopping

✔️ Have collapsed, have difficulty moving or coordinating movements

✔️ May have eaten something toxic

✔️ Appear to be in severe pain or discomfort

✔️ Try to urinate or defaecate and are unable to

✔️ Are repeatedly vomiting or have diarrhoea which is severe or bloody

What to do in an Emergency




First and foremost, protect yourself! If you become injured, it will be harder to help. Injured dogs often become defensive and may become aggressive.

  • Approach the dog slowly and talk in a calm, soothing voice.
  •  Always muzzle a dog in pain or have someone restrain the head before examining an injured area. A muzzle can be improvised with gauze or cloth if you do not have one available. This is important even with your own pet as all dogs can be unpredictable when in pain. Do not place a muzzle on an animal that is having difficulty breathing or vomiting.
  • If you do get bitten, see your doctor. Dog bite wounds commonly become infected and can cause serious issues if not treated appropriately
  • Call your vet and follow their direction. Explain what’s happened and let them know that you’re on the way and when you’ll arrive. If it’s an evening or weekend, you might get a message giving you details of your local out-of-hours vet
  • Drive safely when taking the patient to the surgery
  • Do not give your pet any medications without checking with your veterinarian first. Many human drugs are toxic to animals and could interfere with medications that a veterinarian would use to help your pet.
  • Do not offer food or drink in case anaesthetic is needed

The Must-Haves in your Pet First Aid Kit


A good pet first aid kit will contain all the things you’ll need to give simple first aid for small injuries at home. Even if you can treat your pet using your first aid kit, you should take them to your vet for a check-up as soon as possible.

1. Important phone numbers (veterinarian, emergency clinic)
2. Tweezers
3. Blunt ended scissors
4. Muzzle, spare collar and leash
5. Rectal thermometer
6. Adhesive bandage/tape
7. Latex gloves
8. Towel or blanket
9. Sterile saline
10. Gauze roll and gauze sponges
11. Wound dressings
12. Antiseptic wipes
13. Tick tweezers

If your dog has been hit by a car




Prevention is better than cure. Even a well-behaved dog should be kept on a lead anywhere near traffic, including slow moving vehicles. Do not have the collar so loose that the dog can get free. 

If your pet is hit by a car, the best thing to do is keep calm and don’t panic:
  • What’s the danger to you and others? Always make sure it’s safe to intervene
  • Direct the traffic around the accident if you can
  • Get someone to phone the nearest vet
  • Talk gently to the dog and approach from the front so they can see you
  • Move slowly and avoid any sudden movements
  • Put a lead on if possible and, if necessary, muzzle before handling. If your dog can walk, gently coax them into a car and go to the vet immediately, even if there appears to be no pain. There may be internal injuries that are not immediately obvious
  • If the dog cannot walk, small dogs can be picked up by placing one hand at the front of the chest and the other under the hindquarters. Improvise a stretcher for larger dogs with a coat or a blanket. As you move them, make sure their breathing isn’t obstructed
  • If the dog is paralysed, there may be a spinal injury so try to find something rigid, such as a board. Slide the patient gently on to this if possible
  • Cover with a blanket to reduce heat loss

If your dog has a heatstroke

Pets can quickly overheat in hot weather. Avoid heatstroke by:

✔️ Not exercising your pet during the hottest part of the day.

✔️ Never leaving your pet in a car.

✔️ Provide them with enough shade, plenty of cool drinking water and limit excessive exercise.

✔️ If you think your pet has heatstroke, it’s an emergency. It very important to gradually lower their body temperature so they can recover.

✔️ If you cannot immediately get your pet to a veterinarian, move him/her to a shaded area and out of direct sunlight.




✔️ Place a cool or cold, wet towel around your pet’s neck and head (do not cover your pet’s eyes, nose, or mouth). Remove the towel, wring it out, then rewet and rewrap it every few minutes.

✔️ Offer small amounts of cool water to drink.

✔️ Pour or use a hose to keep cool water running over the animal’s body (especially the abdomen and between the hind legs). Then, use your hands to sweep the water away as it absorbs the body heat. Keep pouring water over them until their breathing starts to settle. Don’t cool them down so much they start to shiver.

Once they’ve cooled down, take them to the vet as an emergency.

If your dog is bleeding

✔️ Apply direct pressure with a clean towel or cloth for at least 3 minutes before checking to see if the bleeding has stopped.

✔️ Put on a tight bandage. Improvise with a towel or some clothing if necessary. If blood is seeping through, apply another tight layer.

✔️ Only use a tourniquet as a last resort. For places you cannot bandage, press a pad firmly onto the wound and hold it in place.

Severe bleeding can quickly be life-threatening. Get your animal to a veterinarian immediately if this occurs.

If your dog is burnt or scalded

✔️ Run cold water over the area for at least five minutes.

✔️ Do not apply ointments or creams but if there is going to be a delay getting to the vet, you can apply saline soaked dressing to the area.

✔️ Seek immediate veterinary care.


If your dog is bitten by a snake



Pets are usually bitten on or around the head, neck, and front legs.

✔️ Keep your pet calm and quiet, movement helps the venom spread around the lymphatic system, so the less they move, the more time you have.

✔️ Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage, if possible (similar first aid techniques as recommended for people), but do not use a tourniquet or restrict blood flow.

✔️ Do not try to look for a bite mark or clean the bite site with anything.

✔️ Try to identify the snake if it can be done without risk; do not attempt to capture or kill the snake. Do not bring the snake into the veterinarian – a photograph will do

✔️ Transport your pet to a vet immediately, and if possible, call the clinic to let them know you are on the way. They may also provide additional instructions.

If your dog is poisoned

If you know or suspect your pet has consumed something that may be harmful, call your veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic. You could also call the Animal Poisons Helpline (ph 1300 869 738) which is a free poisons information helpline for pet owners.

Try to find packaging from the substance swallowed and have it with you when you phone. If chewing plants is suspected, try to find out the identity of the plant

Do not try to induce vomiting or give any medication to your pet unless directed to do so by the Animal Poisons Helpline or your veterinarian.

If your dog is not breathing

✔️ Check that breathing has definitely stopped (hold a wisp of fur to the nostrils and look for movement).

✔️ Open your pet’s airway by gently grasping its tongue and pulling it forward (out of the mouth) until it is flat. Check the throat to see if there is anything blocking the airway. Be careful not to get bitten.

✔️ Perform rescue breathing by extending the head (nose pointing forwards). Hold the mouth closed and blow into the nose until you see the chest expand. Once the chest expands, continue administering one rescue breath every 4-5 seconds.

If your pet has no heartbeat


✔️ Place your pet on their right side on a firm, flat surface. Dogs with barrel-shaped chests need to be lying on their backs and CPR compressions are done at the midpoint of the chest

    o For small dogs, use one hand, but for large dogs, use both hands interlocked.

✔️ The heart is located on the left side in the lower half of the chest, just behind the elbow of the front left leg

✔️ Press down with quick, firm pressure to depress the chest. Each compression should depress the chest by a half to two thirds. The chest should be allowed to return to the normal position after each compression. Perform two chest compressions per second at the widest part of the chest

✔️ Keep your arms straight and if you have someone with you, swap regularly as the process is very tiring

✔️ After 15 compressions, extend their neck, close the mouth, and perform two rescue breaths (described above)

✔️ Check for a heartbeat

✔️ If your dog is still not breathing and there is no heartbeat, repeat the process until veterinary help arrives or until the heartbeat and breathing return,

For more information on first aid in dogs including emergency care, CPR, videos, and hundreds of educational resources written by trusted veterinarians all FREE, download the Your Pet PA App today!

About the Author

Dr Lachlan Campbell BVSc(hons) BScApp(hons) BSc Dip.Mgt MANZCVS(Surgery) is the Head Veterinarian at Your Pet PA and lives on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland with his young family and his three dogs Edna, Euka and Pip.

Lachlan has over 13 years’ experience and has a keen interest in all aspects of veterinary medicine including ultrasonography, preventative medicine, wellness care and advice. 

He has worked in small animal general and emergency practices in both Australia and internationally. Lachlan has advanced surgical qualifications and has been admitted, through examination, to be a member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists.

For more information, please visit yourpetpa.com.au
Follow them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/yourpetPA/ 


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