Every pet owner tries their hardest to keep their pets out of harm’s way, but accidents will happen. If your pet is injured or involved in an accident at home, you will need to rush them to the emergency animal hospital in D’lberville, MS right away. But before you do, there are a few things that you can do at home to make sure your pet is stable and comfortable before heading to the hospital:

• Remain calm: This will be the most important step in getting your pet ready for an emergency visit. Your pet will undoubtedly be very afraid, and if they sense any panic in your voice and actions, it will send them further into dismay. However, if you keep a calm demeanor despite your own fears, they will pick up on this instead, and it will go a long way toward helping to keep them calm as well.
• Approaching your pet: Maintaining your calm demeanor, very slowly approach your pet and call their name. Since your pet is frightened, they may exhibit unusually aggressive behavior, in which case it is best that you call for help instead of trying to pick them up. But if you are able to get close to your pet and pick them up for transport, make sure to use extreme care and do so gently, being mindful of any broken limbs or bruises. This is also the time, if necessary, to cover your pet’s head with a blanket or muzzle to prevent any biting that might occur because of your pet’s trepidation.
• Helping your pet breathe: If your pet is having difficulty breathing or has become unresponsive, it will be best to remove any blockages and stabilize them before you take them to the hospital. After cautiously approaching them, slowly place your finger in your pet’s mouth to try to dislodge the offending object, petting and verbally reassuring your animal the entire time. If this doesn’t work, firmly slap your pet’s chest until the object is discharged. After you have removed the object, take your pet to the hospital right away to have them checked out.
• Transportation: If it is at all possible, try to hold your pet gently in your arms on the way to the hospital. Your reassuring touch will help them continue to remain as calm and relaxed as the situation allows. If this is not an option, transport your pet in an open-topped animal carrier, which will help prevent any exacerbation of your pet’s anxiety that may result from feeling boxed in, and not being able to fully see and process their surroundings.

Emergencies will naturally breed panic, because you don’t want to see your pet in pain. But remaining calm will help you to control the situation, and will allow you to safely transport your pet to the emergency animal hospital in D’lberville, MS. If you find yourself in this situation with your pet, contact D’lberville Veterinary Hospital to make sure your best friend gets the care they need right away so that they can return home healthy as quickly as possible.