Living in the Sunshine State offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures with our furry companions. Whether it’s a stroll along the beach, a hike through the forests, or simply enjoying the backyard, pets in Florida are exposed to various hazards that can lead to emergencies. Being prepared for such situations with pet first aid knowledge and a well-stocked first aid kit can make all the difference in ensuring your pet’s safety and well-being.
Top 5 Most Common Pet Veterinary Emergency Room Visits in Florida
- Heatstroke: With Florida’s warm climate, heatstroke is a significant concern for pets, especially during the hot and humid summer months. Signs include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, and collapse.
- Ingestion of Toxins: Florida is home to a wide range of plants, insects, and animals that can be toxic to pets if ingested. Common toxins include certain plants like oleander and azaleas, as well as venomous creatures like snakes and spiders.
- Trauma: Pets in Florida are at risk of trauma from various sources, including car accidents, falls, and fights with other animals. Trauma can lead to injuries such as lacerations, fractures, and internal bleeding.
- Allergic Reactions: Allergies to insect bites, certain foods, or environmental allergens are not uncommon among pets in Florida. Allergic reactions can range from mild itching and swelling to severe anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention.
- Drowning: Florida’s abundance of lakes, rivers, pools, and even backyard ponds poses a drowning risk to pets, especially dogs. Supervision around water bodies is crucial to prevent accidents.
Pet First Aid Essentials
- Create a Pet First Aid Kit: Every Florida pet owner should have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand in the car or home that can be a DIY made version or find one on Amazon or local pet store!
Pro Tip:Essential items include gauze pads, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, antiseptic wipes, hydrogen peroxide, a digital thermometer, and a muzzle.
- Include Florida-Specific Items: Consider adding items specific to Florida’s climate and environment, such as tick removal tools,bottled water, First Aid Alcohol to cool down paw pads for heat exhaustion, and electrolyte solutions for rehydration in case of heatstroke.
- Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Save the contact information for your veterinarian, the nearest emergency veterinary clinic, and the ASPCA Poison Control Center hotline (888-426-4435) in your phone and written down in your first aid kit.
Pro Tip: There is a fee for calling ASPCA Poison Control- but your Veterinarian will do the same thing and charge you too!
- Take a Pet First Aid Course: Consider enrolling in a pet first aid course to learn hands-on techniques from professionals.
Pro Tip: Red Cross offers a Pet Specific First Aid Class for Pet Owners + Professionals!
As responsible pet owners in Florida, it’s our duty to ensure the safety and well-being of our furry companions, especially in emergencies. By being prepared with pet first aid knowledge and a well-equipped first aid kit, we can provide immediate care and potentially save our pets’ lives. Remember, in any emergency situation, quick action and calmness are key.
Written By:
Amber Van Denzen is the Founder of Atta Boy! Animal Care, Atta Boy! Mobile Dog Gym, Pet Sitter CEO and is the current President of FPSA. She is a dually certified Professional Pet Sitter, FetchFind Certified, a retired Veterinary Nurse of 13 years, and holds a bachelor’s degree in Animal Sciences. She lives with her 2 dogs, 15 chickens, 3 fish aquariums, 2 geckos, 3 turtles and 2 hermit crabs with her human family in Lakeland, Florida.
Amber Van Denzen, CPPS
