Remaining calm is the trick...
It is fantastic news that Dunshaughlin fire brigade has now been equipped with oxygen masks for animals in the event that they are involved in a house fire. Especially now that Halloween is around the corner, antisocial behavior, illegal fireworks and bonfires increase the risk of fire outbreak and consequent damage to property or harm to animals.
In light of this, here are some essential first aid tips that you can use should your pet ever become caught up in a fire.
Call your vet when you are on the way down to the clinic so they can have everything they need to treat your pet prepared in advance.
If the fire brigade provides your pet with an oxygen mask, keep it on them until veterinary staff take over care.
Keep your pet calm! Stressed animals will hyperventilate which can prevent them from taking in enough oxygen.
If they have any obvious burns, give them a cold, wet towel to lie during the car ride to the vets as this will help to cool the heat and reduce pain.
Don’t douse them with very cold or freezing water as this can actually trap heat inside the animal’s body rather than allowing it to escape.
Don’t apply any burn sprays or gels, as this can interfere with veterinary treatment.
Keep dogs on leads and cats in carriers. A frightened animal will try to run away, no matter how well behaved they are usually.
On the way to the vet, drive with the windows cracked down to let in cool, fresh air.
Ensure that your pet has access to fresh drinking water en route to the vet.
If you want to learn more about pet first aid, call us or drop in to talk to any member of our staff.