First aid for pets when house sitting

When house sitting for pets, having a basic understanding of pet first aid is crucial for ensuring their well-being. A well-stocked pet first aid kit is essential, including items like wound-cleaning supplies, pain relievers (vet-approved), and tools for removing ticks. It's also vital to know how to handle common emergencies like cuts, burns, and heatstroke, and to have emergency contact information for the pet's vet and local emergency clinics readily available.

Preparations

When you meet the owner, its the best chance, to clarify important topics around the possible emergency scenarios.

Check with him, whether these three things are available:

·        A First Aid Kit for pets

·        The vet’s emergency contact and location

·        The vaccination & medical records and the insurance information

Treatments can become extremely expensive; thus, it might be worth to clarify, who shall be responsible for vet costs occurring during the sit.

 A comprehensive pet first aid kit should include wound care like Antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, adhesive tape, non-stick bandages, and pet-safe antibiotic ointment for cleaning and covering minor wounds. For pain relief only use vet-approved pain relievers; always consult with the pet's veterinarian before administering any medication.

Common pet emergencies and how to respond

Being prepared to handle common pet emergencies can make a significant difference for the wellbeing of your pet. Here are the most common situation an how to treat them:

• Cuts and Lacerations:

  Clean the wound with antiseptic wipes, apply a clean gauze pad, and secure it with adhesive tape. For severe bleeding, apply direct pressure and seek veterinary care immediately.

• Burns: Flush the area with cool water for at least 10 minutes.

• Heatstroke:

  Move the pet to a cooler place, apply cool water to the body (avoiding the head), and provide water to drink. Seek immediate veterinary care.

• Poisoning:

  Never feed human food to your pet. Be aware of toxic foods that dogs or cats must never eat. If it happened, do not induce vomiting and call the pet poison control hotline immediately.

• Foreign Object:

  For small objects like thorns, if you can see them, try to remove it with tweezers. But do not remove bigger objects especially from high bleeding areas like the chest.

• Seizures:

  Stay calm and move the pet to a safe area. Do not restrain the pet's movements. Note the duration and frequency of the seizure.

• Choking:

  If you see an object in the throat, attempt to remove it. If not, perform a Heimlich maneuver (dogs) or a modified version for cats. Seek immediate veterinary care.

• Limping

  Limping can be a sign of a foreign object in the paw or a possible fracture. Check the paws for any foreign objects and remove them if possible. Applying a bandage can help absorb pressure and relieve initial pain. If the pet is unable to walk, gently lay them on a flat surface to transport them safely to the vet. If you suspect a fracture, keep your pet indoors and restrict their movement by placing them in a crate.

• Insects, Ticks, Fleas:

  Use a tick remover tool to safely remove ticks. For fleas, consult with the pet's veterinarian for appropriate treatment options.

General Considerations

In general it might be helpful, that you have a basic understanding of dogs and cats health, before administering any first aid treatment. Various organizations offer short courses of a couple of hours and mostly small money, which can prepare you for the emergency case. It might be worth to consider that, also helps, to promote you as an expert sitter.

Taking the pet to the vet:

If you suspect the pet is unwell or if you have any concerns, for example reduced activity level, rejecting food or uncommon behaviours, check with your host to take them to their regular veterinarian or a local emergency clinic.

Emergency contact information:

You should have the owner's emergency contact information as well the vet's information readily available. Keep the vaccination & medical records in reach in case you quickly need it.

Safe environment:

Generally, have a common sense to ensure the pet has a safe and comfortable environment, including a secure yard or space and access to fresh water and food. For example, be aware of places where injuries might occur e.g. broken glass, avoid contact with potential aggressive dogs, don’t walk your dog in extreme heat or crowded places. For the psychological wellbeing, talk to the owner about potential anxieties or trauma.  

Being prepared with the right knowledge and tools can make a significant difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of pets under your care.