Emergency first aid for dogs that you should know

As a dog owner, being prepared for an emergency can make all the difference in your pet’s survival and recovery. This concise guide to emergency first aid for dogs provides essential steps to stabilize your furry friend during a crisis, from assessing injuries to managing life-threatening conditions. While these techniques can buy critical time, they are not a substitute for professional care—always prioritize contacting a veterinarian as soon as possible. With a calm approach and the right knowledge, you can help your dog through unexpected emergencies until expert help is available. I personally had to do rescue breathing on Maximus when he first starting going down. Always be prepared to deliver first aid. Let’s take a look at how you can prepare and train for dog emergencies.

1. Assess the situation

The first and most important thing to remember is to stay calm. Your dog will pick up on your energy. Speak softly and move slowly to avoid escalating their stress. When performing first aid on a dog, it’s crucial to assess the situation calmly and quickly to determine the severity of the injury or illness. Start by ensuring your safety and the dog’s comfort—approach cautiously, especially if the dog is in pain or frightened, as it may react unpredictably. Make sure the environment is safe for both you and your dog (e.g., move them out of traffic or away from hazards). Next, you want to check for responsiveness. Assess the dog’s breathing, consciousness, and circulation- checking for signs of trauma, bleeding, or distress. Identify any visible injuries like broken bones, wounds, or burns, and look for signs of shock, such as rapid breathing or a weak pulse. It’s essential to prioritize life-threatening conditions, like bleeding or difficulty breathing, while taking steps to minimize the dog’s stress. Once the immediate risks are managed, you can begin stabilizing the dog for transport to a veterinarian. Always remember, staying calm and methodical during the assessment helps both you and the dog remain focused on getting the proper care.

2. Breathing issues

Quickly observe the dog’s behavior and breathing pattern. Is the dog struggling to breathe, panting excessively, or showing signs of distress? Look for labored breathing, open-mouth breathing, or abnormal noises (like wheezing or coughing). Check if the gums or tongue are turning blue, which indicates a lack of oxygen.

• If not breathing: Check for obstructions in the mouth or throat (e.g., a toy or bone). Ensure that the dog’s airway is clear of any obstructions, such as vomit, food, or foreign objects. Gently open the dog’s mouth and look for any blockages. If you find something, try to remove it carefully, but do not push it further down the throat. If the dog is unresponsive and choking, you can attempt the Heimlich maneuver for dogs.
  • For small dogs: Hold them with their back against your chest, and apply firm pressure just below the ribcage.
  • For large dogs: From behind, press upward and inward below the ribcage with both hands.

• If clear, perform rescue breathing (see video under “No pulse or heartbeat”):
  1. Close their mouth with your hand.
  2. Place your mouth over their nose and blow gently until you see the chest rise (about 1 breath every 3-5 seconds).
  3. Continue until they breathe on their own or you reach a vet.

Forward to 3:22 to learn how to give rescue breathing.

3. No pulse or heartbeat

If a dog has no pulse or heartbeat, it is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate action. First, confirm the dog is unresponsive and not breathing by checking for chest movement and feeling for a pulse at the femoral artery. If there is no pulse and the dog isn’t breathing, begin CPR right away. For chest compressions, place the dog on its right side and use both hands for larger dogs or one hand for smaller dogs, pressing down firmly on the widest part of the ribcage about 1/3 to 1/2 of its depth at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. After every 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by sealing your mouth around the dog’s nose, ensuring the chest rises with each breath. Continue alternating between compressions and rescue breaths until the dog starts breathing on its own or until professional help arrives. Once the dog’s heartbeat and breathing are restored, transport the dog to a veterinarian immediately for further evaluation. CPR should only be performed when necessary, and rapid action is key to giving the dog the best chance of survival.

Key points

• CPR: If there’s no heartbeat (check by feeling the chest behind the front left leg):
  1. Lay the dog on their right side on a flat surface.
  2. Place your hands over the heart (about where the elbow meets the chest).
  3. Compress the chest 1-2 inches for medium/large dogs, less for small dogs (100-120 compressions per minute—think of the beat of “Stayin’ Alive”).
  4. After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths.
  5. Repeat until the heart restarts or you get help.

4. Bleeding

When dealing with a bleeding dog during first aid, it’s essential to act swiftly and calmly to control the bleeding and prevent shock. First, assess the severity of the wound. For minor bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage to the wound, which helps to stem the flow of blood. For more significant or severe bleeding, use a clean gauze pad or cloth to apply firm pressure directly to the wound. If the bleeding doesn’t stop after a few minutes of direct pressure, elevate the injured limb (if possible) to reduce blood flow. In cases of deep or large wounds, consider using a tourniquet above the wound to control bleeding, but only as a last resort. Make sure to monitor for signs of shock, such as pale gums or rapid breathing, which may require immediate veterinary attention. Once the bleeding is controlled, bandage the wound securely, but not too tightly, to keep it from reopening. Always seek professional veterinary care as soon as possible, as even small wounds can become serious if not properly treated.

Signs of internal bleeding in dogs can be subtle or severe, depending on the location and extent of the bleeding. Common symptoms include pale or white gums, which indicate poor blood circulation, and weakness or lethargy. Your dog may exhibit a rapid or weak pulse, shallow breathing, or an increased heart rate. Other signs include swelling or bruising, particularly in the abdomen or limbs, as well as vomiting or coughing up blood. If the bleeding is affecting the gastrointestinal tract, your dog might have dark, tarry stools or bloody diarrhea. If internal bleeding is suspected, it’s critical to seek immediate veterinary attention, as it can be life-threatening.

Key points

• External bleeding: Apply firm, direct pressure with a clean cloth or bandage. Elevate the wound if possible. Don’t remove the cloth if it soaks through—add more layers.
• Severe bleeding (e.g., arterial spurting): Use a tourniquet (belt, leash) between the wound and the heart, but only if you can’t stop the bleeding otherwise. Loosen it every 15-20 minutes for a few seconds.
• Internal bleeding: It can be deadly and hard to recognize. Seek vet attention immediately.

5. Fractures or injuries

When handling a dog with a suspected fracture or injury, it’s essential to stay calm and act quickly to prevent further harm. First, assess the injury and try to keep the dog as still as possible to avoid worsening the damage. If the bone is visibly out of place or there’s severe swelling, avoid trying to realign it, as this can cause more harm. Use a makeshift splint, such as a rolled-up newspaper, stick, or board, to immobilize the injured limb, securing it with a bandage or cloth. Ensure the splint is snug but not too tight to avoid cutting off circulation. For open fractures, cover the wound with a clean, sterile cloth to protect it from dirt and infection. Apply gentle pressure to any bleeding with a clean cloth or gauze to control it. Keep the dog calm and minimize movement while transporting it to a veterinarian for professional treatment. Prompt medical attention is crucial, as fractures can lead to complications like infection or damage to surrounding tissues.

Key points

• Broken Bones: Limit movement. If a limb is dangling, gently immobilize it with a makeshift splint (e.g., a stick wrapped with cloth). Avoid manipulating it too much.
• Transport: Slide the dog onto a flat surface (like a board or blanket) to move them without bending the spine.

Videos

• Leg injuries
• Basic bandages and splints
• Moving an injured dog

6. Poisoning

If you suspect a dog has been poisoned, it’s crucial to act quickly and seek immediate veterinary attention. First, try to identify the toxin the dog has ingested, whether it’s food, chemicals, plants, or medications, as this will help the vet determine the best course of treatment. Keep the dog as calm as possible and avoid inducing vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian, as some substances can cause more harm when vomited. If the poison was a chemical or toxin that could harm the dog’s skin or eyes, rinse the affected area immediately with water. If the dog is conscious and able to swallow, you may be able to administer activated charcoal to help absorb the poison, but only under veterinary guidance. Monitor the dog closely for symptoms like drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, or seizures, and keep the poison container or any information about the substance to bring with you to the vet. Time is critical in poisoning cases, so getting the dog to a veterinary clinic as quickly as possible is essential for the best chance of recovery.

Key points

• Signs: Vomiting, drooling, seizures, lethargy.
• Action: Don’t induce vomiting unless a vet instructs you to. Identify the substance (keep packaging if possible) and call a vet or pet poison hotline (e.g., ASPCA: 888-426-4435 in the US) immediately.

7. Heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion in dogs can be serious, so it’s important to act quickly. First, move your dog to a cooler, shaded area, and offer fresh, cool water for them to drink—don’t force it, but encourage it. Gradually cool your dog down by wetting their body with cool (not ice-cold) water, focusing on areas like the paws, belly, and ears. You can also use a fan to aid in cooling. If possible, check your dog’s temperature—if it’s over 104°F (40°C), contact a veterinarian immediately, as heat stroke is a risk. Keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior, watching for signs like excessive panting, lethargy, or vomiting. Even if your dog improves, it’s essential to seek veterinary attention to ensure they’re not at risk of heat stroke. Preventive measures include avoiding walks during the hottest parts of the day, providing plenty of water, and never leaving your dog in a hot car.

Key points

• Signs: Signs of heat exhaustion in dogs include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heartbeat, unsteadiness, and in severe cases, collapse. Your dog may also appear disoriented or have difficulty standing or walking. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to act quickly and cool your dog down while seeking veterinary help, as it can lead to heatstroke.
• Move the dog to a cooler area.
• Offer water.
• Cool your dog down gradually.
• Take your pup’s temperature. A normal dog’s temperature is between 101°F and 102.5°F (38.3°C and 39.2°C).
• Monitor your dog’s condition for changes.
• Again, seek veterinary attention.

8. Heatstroke

If a dog is suffering from heatstroke, immediate action is crucial to prevent serious injury or death. First, remove the dog from the hot environment and move them to a cooler, shaded area. Begin cooling the dog down by offering fresh water, but don’t force it to drink if the dog is too weak or disoriented. Use cool (not cold) water to dampen the dog’s fur, especially on the belly, paws, and ears, and avoid using ice, as it can constrict blood vessels and hinder cooling. You can also gently fan the dog to help with evaporation. Monitor the dog’s temperature using a thermometer, and aim to lower it gradually to around 103°F (39.4°C). Once the dog’s temperature begins to come down, take it to a veterinarian immediately for further evaluation, as heatstroke can cause long-term organ damage even if the immediate symptoms subside. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and in severe cases, collapse or seizures. Quick, calm intervention is essential for the dog’s survival and recovery.

Key points

• Signs: Signs of heatstroke in dogs include heavy and rapid panting, drooling, red or pale gums, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, uncoordinated movements, seizures, excessive weakness, and even collapse. In severe cases, the dog may lose consciousness or experience organ failure. Heatstroke is a medical emergency, and if you suspect your dog is experiencing it, you should seek immediate veterinary care. Temperatures over 104°F (40°C).
• Action: Move them to a cool area. Wet their body with cool (not ice-cold) water, focusing on the head, neck, and underbelly. Use a fan if available. Get to a vet fast.

9. Seizures

If your dog is having a seizure, it’s important to stay calm and ensure their safety. First, clear the area of any sharp objects or hazards to prevent injury. Do not try to put your hand in your dog’s mouth, as this can cause harm. Time the seizure, and if it lasts more than five minutes, seek immediate veterinary help. After the seizure, your dog may be disoriented or tired, so keep them in a quiet, safe place and offer gentle reassurance. It’s crucial to observe and record details of the seizure, such as its duration and symptoms, to share with your veterinarian. If this is your dog’s first seizure or if seizures occur frequently, contact your vet for further evaluation. Always seek emergency care if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or if multiple seizures occur in a row.

Key points

• During: Don’t restrain them or put anything in their mouth. Clear the area of objects they could hit.
• After: Keep them calm and cool (seizures can raise body temp). Time the seizure—vet help is urgent if it lasts over 5 minutes or repeats.

10. Burns

If your dog suffers a burn, it’s important to act quickly. First, remove your dog from the heat source to prevent further injury. Immediately cool the burn area with cool (not cold) water for 10-15 minutes, either by running it under cool water or using a damp cloth. Avoid using ice or ice-cold water, as it can cause additional damage. After cooling, gently cover the burn with a clean, non-stick bandage or sterile gauze to protect it from infection. Keep an eye out for signs of shock, such as rapid breathing, weakness, or pale gums, and keep your dog calm and comfortable. Even if the burn seems minor, contact your veterinarian for further care, as burns can be more serious than they appear. Your vet will assess the severity of the burn and provide appropriate treatment to prevent complications.

Key points

• Remove the dog from the heat source or whatever caused the burn (whether chemical or heat) if it is safe. If it is a chemical burn, you’ll want to use appropriate gloves or whatever you can to protect yourself in the moment.
• Use cool water, whether chemical or heat related, for up to 15 minutes.
• Avoid ice or ice-cold water.
• Cover the burn.
• Monitor for shock.
• Seek veterinary care.

11. Vomiting and/or diarrhea

Above all, do not panic. Vomiting or diarrhea isn’t necessarily indicative of a serious medical condition. For example, Maximus had an overproduction of stomach acid and would sometimes throw up.

If your dog is vomiting and/or experiencing diarrhea, it’s important to monitor their condition closely and provide first aid as needed. First, withhold food for 12 to 24 hours to give your dog’s digestive system time to rest and recover, but always ensure they have access to fresh water to prevent dehydration. Offer small amounts of water frequently to keep them hydrated, but avoid giving large amounts at once, as this can cause more vomiting. If your dog continues to vomit or has diarrhea for more than 24 hours, or if they show signs of dehydration (such as dry gums, lethargy, or sunken eyes), contact your veterinarian immediately. If the vomiting and diarrhea are accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, fever, or blood in the stool or vomit, it’s critical to seek veterinary care right away. In some cases, vomiting and diarrhea may be signs of a more serious underlying condition, such as an infection, poisoning, or gastrointestinal obstruction.

12. Allergic reactions

Dogs can experience various types of allergic reactions, and they can be triggered by different environmental factors, foods, or substances. Some common types of allergic reactions in dogs include:

• Food allergies: These occur when a dog’s immune system reacts to certain proteins or ingredients in their food, such as beef, chicken, dairy, wheat, or soy. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, itching, and ear infections.
• Flea allergies: Flea allergy dermatitis is an allergic reaction to flea saliva, causing intense itching, hair loss, red, inflamed skin, and sores. Even a single flea bite can trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive dogs.
• Environmental allergies (atopy): These are seasonal or year-round allergies caused by pollen, dust mites, mold, or grasses. Dogs with environmental allergies may experience itching, ear infections, watery eyes, and sneezing.
• Contact allergies: These happen when a dog’s skin comes into contact with certain substances, such as certain fabrics, chemicals, or cleaning products. Symptoms often include localized itching, rashes, or hives.
• Insect stings or bites: In some dogs, stings or bites from insects like bees, wasps, or mosquitoes can trigger allergic reactions. Symptoms can include swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, or even anaphylaxis in severe cases.
• Drug allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to medications, including antibiotics, vaccines, or flea preventatives. Reactions can range from mild rashes or gastrointestinal issues to more severe symptoms like swelling or difficulty breathing.
• Vaccine reactions: Dogs can sometimes have allergic reactions to vaccines, typically within hours of administration. Symptoms may include swelling at the injection site, lethargy, or more severe reactions like vomiting, diarrhea, or anaphylaxis.

If your dog is having an allergic reaction, it’s important to act quickly. First, try to identify the cause of the allergic reaction (such as food, insect bites, or medication) and remove your dog from the source, if possible. If the allergic reaction causes swelling, particularly around the face, eyes, or throat, it’s important to monitor your dog’s breathing. If your dog is having difficulty breathing or shows signs of anaphylaxis (e.g., rapid swelling, hives, weakness, collapse), seek emergency veterinary care immediately, as this is a life-threatening reaction. For milder symptoms like itching or mild swelling, you can give your dog a dose of Benadryl (diphenhydramine), but only if recommended by your vet and based on the correct dosage for your dog’s size. You can also apply a cold compress to swollen areas to help reduce inflammation. Regardless of the severity, it’s important to contact your veterinarian for guidance, especially if the reaction persists or worsens.

Supplies to have handy

Having a well-stocked first aid kit for your dog is essential for handling emergencies quickly and effectively. Here are some important supplies to have on hand:

• Gauze Pads and Bandages – For cleaning and covering wounds to prevent infection and stop bleeding.
• Adhesive Tape – To secure bandages in place, ensuring they stay on without restricting blood flow.
• Antiseptic Wipes/Solution – For cleaning wounds before applying bandages to prevent infection.
• Tweezer – For removing splinters, ticks, or other foreign objects.
• Thermometer – To check your dog’s temperature and monitor for fever or hypothermia.
• Non-stick Bandages or Pads – To prevent sticking to wounds when covering them.
• Hydrocortisone Cream – For treating mild itching or skin irritations.
• Antibiotic Ointment (like Neosporin) – For minor cuts and scrapes to prevent infection.
• Cotton Balls or Swabs – Useful for cleaning or applying topical treatments.
• Scissors – For cutting bandages, gauze, or hair around wounds.
• Muzzle – To prevent biting during an emergency, especially if your dog is in pain or scared.
• Tweezers – For removing ticks, splinters, or bee stingers.
• Eye Wash or Saline Solution – For flushing out debris from your dog’s eyes.
• Disposable Gloves – To protect yourself when handling injuries or contaminants.
• Styptic Powder or Pencil – To stop bleeding from minor cuts or nail injuries.
• Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) – For allergic reactions, but always check the correct dosage with your vet before administering.
• Elastic Bandage (like Vet Wrap) – For wrapping wounds, sprains, or strains, especially on paws or limbs.
• Instant Cold Pack – For reducing swelling or pain from injuries or sprains.
• Emergency Contact Information – Including your vet’s phone number, the nearest emergency animal clinic, and the pet poison control hotline.

Having these items on hand can help you manage minor injuries, illnesses, or emergencies until you can get your dog to a veterinarian. Make sure to check the kit regularly to ensure all items are stocked and not expired. You can also buy pet first aid kits at Amazon.

Important note

These are temporary measures. Speed is critical—get your dog to a vet as soon as you can. If you’re unsure about any step, call a professional while you act.

Conclusion

Equipping yourself with basic first aid knowledge can empower you to act swiftly and effectively when your dog faces an emergency. From controlling bleeding to recognizing signs of heatstroke or poisoning, these steps are designed to stabilize your pet and provide comfort until veterinary care is reached. Keep in mind that time is of the essence—after administering first aid, get your dog to a professional as quickly as possible. With preparation and a cool head, you can be your dog’s first line of defense in a crisis, ensuring they get the best chance at a full recovery. You could also consider taking a pet first aid course online.