Friday, June 28, 2013

[californiadisasters] Pet First Aid Awareness Month (OCFA)



Pet First Aid Awareness Month is a great opportunity for pet owners to brush up on tips to keep their animals safe and healthy as we head into spring and summer.  We gathered this information from the Red Cross at www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.

Heat stroke is one of the most common problems pets face in the warmer weather when they are not yet used to the warm temperatures. Pet owners should remember that the inside of a car can quickly reach 120 degrees in warm weather and should not leave their animals in the car, even during short trips. This can quickly lead to heat stroke.

The signs of heat stroke include:

  • Heavy panting and being unable to calm down, even when lying down.
  • The pet's gums may be brick red, they may have a fast pulse rate, or may not be able to get up.

If someone suspects their pet has heat stroke, they should take the pet's temperature rectally. If the temperature is above 105 degrees Fahrenheit, they should cool the animal down. The easiest way to do this is by using the water hose. Stop cooling the animal when the temperature reaches 103 degrees. Bring the pet to the veterinarian immediately as heat stroke can lead to severe organ dysfunction and damage.

Some plants and flowers can be hazardous. For instance, many lilies are very poisonous to cats. Visit www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/ to find out which plants and flowers are poisonous to animals. If someone thinks their animal is ill or may have ingested a poisonous substance, they should contact their veterinarian.

Pet owners can follow these important steps to help keep their pet healthy: • Give pets plenty of exercise. • Make sure they have plenty of fresh, cool water. • Make sure they get regular yearly checkups with their veterinarian, and are up-to-date on vaccines, especially rabies. • Keep dogs on leashes outside. • Know how to perform CPR and provide basic first aid until veterinary care is available.

Don't forget to include pets in planning for emergencies in your home or neighborhood:

  • Make plans to take your pets with you if you have to evacuate.
  • Most Red Cross shelters cannot accept pets because of health and safety concerns and other considerations. Know which friends, relatives, hotels, and boarding facilities that will accept pets in an emergency.
  • Assemble an easy-to-carry kit with emergency supplies for pets: -   Leashes, harnesses, and/or carriers -   Food, drinking water, bowls, manual can opener -   Medications and copies of medical records -   Current photos of pets
Source: Orange County Fire Authority "On The Front Line" Newsletter



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