Emergency Procedures

Snake or Insect Bite

What to do immediately:

• Keep your dog as still and calm as possible; movement spreads venom faster.
• Carry your dog if possible — do not let them walk.
• If safe, note the snake’s color and shape for the vet.
• Remove any collars near the bite area to reduce pressure if swelling begins.
• Seek veterinary care immediately — even non-venomous bites can infect.

Do NOT:

• Do not try to suck out venom or cut the bite.
• Do not apply ice or a tourniquet.
• Do not give medication unless directed by a vet.

When to see a vet: Always — venomous or not, your dog needs evaluation and possible antivenin or antibiotics.

Poisoning or Toxic Ingestion

• Remove any remaining poison from the mouth or fur if safe (wear gloves).
• Call ASPCA Poison Control 1-888-426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline 1-855-764-7661.
• Note what your dog ate, how much, and when.
• If instructed by a vet, induce vomiting only with 3% hydrogen peroxide (1 tsp per 5 lb body weight) — never do this without guidance.

Do NOT: Give milk, oil, or human food remedies. Never use salt to induce vomiting.

Common toxins: chocolate, xylitol, grapes/raisins, antifreeze, medications, household cleaners, rat poison, onions, garlic.

Bleeding / Injury

• Apply firm, direct pressure with a clean cloth or gauze for at least 5 minutes.
• If bleeding heavily, use a bandage or wrap — not too tight; check circulation.
• Keep the dog calm and warm; transport to vet as soon as possible.

Do NOT: Apply a tourniquet unless you are trained and bleeding is life-threatening.

Choking / Breathing Trouble

• Look inside the mouth — if you can see an object, gently remove with tweezers or pliers.
• Do NOT put your fingers deep into the throat.
• If your dog is unconscious, perform 5 abdominal thrusts (Heimlich-like) just below the ribcage.
• Check breathing and heartbeat — if absent, start CPR (see CPR section).

Seizures / Collapse

• Move furniture and objects away to prevent injury.
• Do not hold or restrain your dog.
• Time the seizure — most last under 2 minutes.
• Afterward, keep your dog quiet and dim lights.
• See a vet immediately if seizure lasts >2 min, repeats, or if unconsciousness continues.

Heatstroke / Frostbite / Burns

• Move dog to a cool/shaded place immediately.
• Wet the coat with cool (not cold) water, especially paws and belly.
• Offer small sips of water; do not force drinking.
• Monitor breathing and temperature; seek vet care ASAP.
• For frostbite: warm gradually with body heat or warm (not hot) compresses.
• For burns: cool with water for 5 min, then cover with clean cloth — no ointments.

Allergic Reaction / Swelling

• Watch for hives, swelling of face, lips, eyes, or difficulty breathing.
• If your dog collapses or cannot breathe, treat as life-threatening and seek emergency vet care.
• Call your vet or emergency clinic immediately.
• If previously prescribed, administer vet-approved antihistamine (like diphenhydramine) per vet dosage.

CPR for Dogs

1. Lay your dog on their right side.
2. Check that the airway is clear.
3. Place your hands over the widest part of the chest (for small dogs: use one hand). Compress 1/3–1/2 chest depth.
4. Give 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths (close mouth, blow into nose).
5. Repeat cycles until breathing or heartbeat resumes or until professional help takes over.

Note: Only perform CPR if your dog is unresponsive and not breathing. Get to a vet immediately once revived.