Being prepared is extremely important when emergency situations arise.  Not only will being prepared benefit you, but can also save your companions life.  An important thing to know is how your veterinarian handles an emergency or where you should go when an emergency happens.  Remember that if your in an emergency First Aid is NOT a substitute for veterinary treatment.  Instead First Aid will help control the situation until you are able to get your companion to a veterinarian. 

Remember that the point of First Aid is to preserve life, to reduce pain and discomfort and to minimize any risk of permanent disability or disfigurement. 

Things to Keep in Mind during an Emergency Situation.

In order to properly assess the situation you need to remain calm. By being calm you can check for any additional threats to you or your companion.  Over-reacting to a situation can only make things worse and can delay valuable time the your companion may need.  Beware of Rabies in wild or stray animals.  Try to keep your cat and/or dog warm, quiet and immobile.  Contact your veterinarian immediately to inform them of the situation and to get advice.  When you are finished stabilizing your pet; safely transport them to your veterinarian or emergency facility.

Watch to make sure that your pet is not in shock.  Shock is a complex systemic or whole body reaction to a number of situation.  The can included acute loss of blood volume such as hemorrhage, heart failure and other causes of decreased circulation.  If shock is not treated quickly and effectively, it may cause irreversible injury to body cells, and it can be fatal.

Shock is recognized by rapid breathing which may be noisy, rapid heart rate with a weak pulse, pale mucous membranes, severe depression and cool extremities.  Your companion may vomit.  Shock  requires immediate emergency treatment.

• Cats and small dogs can be picked up with a towel or a blanket.  To avoid being scratched or bitten; wrap a towel completely around your pet. 
  

• Dogs can be muzzled by using a necktie, stocking, sock, gauze or a soft rope.  Using a muzzle reduces the chances of being bitten.  DO NOT muzzle if your cat and/or dog is vomiting.

• Immobilization by means of a board and straps can be used if a broken bone or spinal injury is suspected.  You can also uses splints and bandages to help stabilize and injury.

• Keep your face away from your pets mouth.  You may feel inclined to hug your companion, but this may scare them or cause them pain.

• When performing an examination make sure to do it slowly and gently.  If your pet becomes more agitated stop the examination.
  

• When transporting your companion try to keep them confined in a small area.  This will help to reduce the risk of additional injury.  For cats and small dogs you can place them in a pet carrier.  For larger dogs any type of board can act as a stretcher.

• Keep your pet's medical records in a safe and accessible place.  Bring them with you when you are bringing your companion to a emergency facility.