First Aid Basics for Your Pet

Posted on 24 September 2025
By Dr. Jill Tack
Posted in Common Dog & Cat Health Issues, Dog & Cat Safety Tips, Dog & Cat Wellness
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Learn how to keep your pet safe during emergencies with our pet first aid tips. Discover natural remedies like herbs for dogs and cats to support their health in times of need.

September is Emergency Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to brush up on how to keep your pet safe in case of a health emergency. It’s hard to predict when your pet might face a sudden illness or injury, but the best way to handle these situations is by being prepared.

At The Pet Beastro, we want to help you get ready for the unexpected. In addition to first aid essentials, we’ll also share natural ways to support your pet through these emergencies, including the power of herbs for dogs and cats that can help with everything from anxiety to digestion.

Step 1: Be Prepared with a Pet First Aid Kit

The first step in emergency preparedness is having a pet first aid kit at the ready. Your kit should include:

Sterile gauze pads and bandages
Tweezers for splinter or tick removal
Scissors to cut bandages or gauze
Hydrogen peroxide (for cleaning wounds)
Saline solution (for eye wash)
A digital thermometer (for temperature checks)
Pet-safe antiseptic spray for minor wounds
A calming herb like chamomile (more on that later!)

And don’t forget to have a list of emergency numbers, including your vet’s contact info and the Animal Poison Control Center: 888-426-4435.

Step 2: Assess the Emergency

How you handle the situation depends on what’s going on with your pet. Here’s how to manage common pet emergencies:

Poisoning

If your pet eats something toxic (whether it's food, plants, or chemicals), take immediate action.

What to do: For skin or eye contact, follow the product’s instructions. If ingested, call your vet or the Animal Poison Control Center. Common signs include drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
Herb help: Activated charcoal (available in powder form) can help absorb toxins in some cases. Always consult a vet before use.

Seizures

Seizures can be frightening, but your calmness can help your pet stay safe.

What to do: Move your pet away from furniture or sharp objects. Do NOT try to restrain your pet. Time the seizure and contact your vet immediately.
Herb help: Valerian root can help manage anxiety and calm a dog’s nervous system post-seizure. Check with a vet for proper dosage.

Fractures

If you suspect your pet has broken a bone:

What to do: Muzzle your pet (to prevent biting due to pain), and keep them still. Transport them to the vet immediately on a flat surface or stretcher.
Herb help: While waiting for help, a small dose of turmeric (known for its anti-inflammatory properties) can help reduce swelling.

External Bleeding

For severe bleeding, stay calm.

What to do: Muzzle your pet, apply a sterile gauze pad to the wound, and apply gentle pressure until the bleeding stops. If it's on a limb, apply a tourniquet above the wound if necessary and get your pet to the vet.
Herb help: Yarrow is an herb with hemostatic properties, helping stop bleeding. It’s available in herbal tincture form, check with your vet before use.

Internal Bleeding

Internal bleeding can be life-threatening, so watch for signs like pale gums, vomiting blood, or difficulty breathing.

What to do: Keep your pet calm and quiet, and get them to the vet immediately. Time is critical.
Herb help: Comfrey can help promote tissue repair, but should only be used under professional guidance after a vet diagnosis.

Burns

Burns can occur from chemicals, heat sources, or accidents.

What to do: For minor burns, rinse the area with cool water and cover with a clean cloth. For severe burns, apply a cool compress and get to the vet as soon as possible.
Herb help: Aloe vera (fresh gel) is soothing for mild burns and is safe for most pets when applied topically.

Choking

If your pet is choking, they may struggle to breathe or act panicked.

What to do: If you see the object, try to remove it carefully with tweezers. If not, perform the Heimlich maneuver (for dogs) or use a similar technique for cats. Immediately head to the vet if the object is lodged or your pet collapses.
Herb help: Ginger can be helpful in soothing upset stomachs caused by swallowed foreign objects, but immediate veterinary care is essential for choking.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke can happen quickly, especially in hot weather.

What to do: Move your pet to a shaded area, and apply cool (not cold) water to their body. Wet towels on the neck and head can help bring the temperature down. Get them to the vet as soon as possible.
Herb help: Peppermint has a cooling effect and can be used in a diluted form as a topical compress. But do not wait to get to a vet.
Step 3: Check In with Your Vet

After any major medical emergency, always follow up with your vet. Even if your pet seems okay, it’s important to have a professional check for any underlying damage or complications. Herbal remedies can be used alongside conventional treatment, but they should never replace professional care.

Natural Remedies for Pet Emergencies: Herbs to Keep on Hand

While it’s important to have your first aid kit stocked, adding a few herbs for pets can support recovery and improve overall health.

Chamomile – Soothes anxiety and helps with digestion.
Turmeric – Reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
Peppermint – Cools down the body and eases digestive issues.
Ginger – Good for nausea, bloating, and stomach upset.

Keep these safe herbal options on hand (with guidance from your vet), and they can support your pet during emergencies and promote overall health.

We’re Here to Help!

At The Pet Beastro, we care deeply about the health and well-being of your pets. If you have questions about first aid for pets, natural remedies, or want to learn more about keeping your pet safe, we’re here to guide you.

Visit us at Madison Heights or Warren, or explore our online store to stock up on herbal remedies, first aid kits, and pet health products that’ll keep your furry friends thriving.