What Every Dog Owner Should Know About First Aid & Emergencies

Emergencies are frightening. Whether it’s a sudden injury on a woodland walk or a collapse at home, those moments can feel overwhelming. But knowing a few simple first aid steps can make a real difference while you’re on your way to the vet.

First aid is not a replacement for veterinary care. It’s about stabilising your dog and preventing things from getting worse until professional treatment is available.

Here in outer London, where many dogs enjoy parks, woodland walks and large gardens, accidents can happen unexpectedly – so a little preparation goes a long way.

Bleeding wounds

If your dog is bleeding:

• Stay calm and keep them as still as possible

• Apply firm, direct pressure using a clean cloth, towel or dressing

• Maintain steady pressure for several minutes without lifting to “check”

• If blood soaks through, place another cloth on top – do not remove the first layer, as this can disturb clotting.

• If bleeding is severe, continuous or spurting, this is an emergency. Come straight to the practice (or nearest emergency clinic) while maintaining pressure.

Heatstroke

Even in the UK, heatstroke can develop quickly – particularly in flat-faced breeds, older dogs, or during warm spring and summer days.

Signs include:

•  Excessive panting

• Drooling

• Vomiting

• Wobbliness

• Collapse

If you suspect heatstroke:

• Move your dog to a shaded, cool area immediately

• Offer small amounts of water

• Pour cool (not cold) water over their body

• Focus on paws, ears and tummy

• Use a fan if available

• Then call us straight away. Heatstroke can worsen rapidly and always requires veterinary assessment.

Choking

Dogs carrying sticks, balls or toys can occasionally choke.

Warning signs include:

• Pawing at the mouth

• Repeated gagging

• Difficulty breathing

Only check inside the mouth if it is safe to do so. Never put your hand inside if your dog is panicking – even the gentlest dog may bite when distressed. If breathing appears compromised, treat this as urgent.

Seizures

Witnessing a seizure is distressing, but try to remain calm.

During a seizure:

• Do not put your hands near your dog’s mouth

• Move nearby furniture to prevent injury

• Dim lights and reduce noise

• Time the episode if possible

Most seizures last under two minutes. If a seizure lasts longer than five minutes, or multiple seizures occur close together, seek emergency care immediately.

Broken nails and paw injuries

These are common after long walks on rough ground.

• Apply gentle pressure if bleeding

• Rinse with clean water

• Prevent licking

• If bleeding continues beyond a few minutes, or your dog is unable to bear weight, contact us for advice.

Keep a simple emergency kit at home

Being prepared helps you stay calm if the unexpected happens. Consider including these items in your home emergency kit:

• Sterile gauze

• Bandage material

• Saline solution

• A tick remover

• A digital thermometer

• Your vet’s phone number saved in your mobile

Trust your instincts

You know your dog better than anyone. If something feels wrong, it probably is.

When in doubt, call us. We would always rather reassure you early than see a condition worsen.

Need advice?

If your dog is injured, unwell, or you’re unsure whether something is an emergency, call us immediately on 01689 477747. We can guide you over the phone and prepare for your arrival if needed.

Quick action can make all the difference.

Quick tips:

• Stay calm and keep your dog as still as possible

• Apply firm pressure to bleeding wounds

• Start cooling immediately if heatstroke is suspected

• Never risk being bitten during choking episodes

• Time seizures and seek urgent care if prolonged

• Save our number in your phone