First Aid Tips for Animals

Some tips from the American Red Cross on giving first aid to pets:

* Always approach a sick or injured animal cautiously. Even your own sweet-tempered pet may become aggressive if frightened or in pain. Be especially careful if approaching an animal you do not know.

* Because injured animals have the potential to bite, they should be muzzled before any care is attempted, unless the animal is vomiting, coughing or having difficulty breathing. Muzzles can be purchased at pet stores. Homemade muzzles can be fashioned out of gauze, a stocking, sock or piece of cloth.

* Do not call 911 for an animal emergency unless there is a person involved.

* Learn what is normal for your pet. Take your animal’s breathing rate, pulse and temperature while it is healthy for reference if there is a later problem. The heartbeat of a dog or cat can be felt in several places, including the inner thigh and just above the middle pad on the underside of the paw.

* The normal pulse rate for a small dog--defined as 30 pounds or less--is 100 to 160 beats per minute. For a medium to large breed, 60 to 100 beats per minute. For a puppy (up to 1 year old) the range is 120 to 160 beats per minute. Normal pulse for a cat is 160 to 220 beats per minute.

* Normal breathing rate for a dog is 10 to 30 breaths per minute. For a cat, the rate is from 20 to 30 breaths per minute.