Pet Health & Veterinary Care
PET FIRST AID
No pet parent ever prays for an emergency at home. But sometimes we’re faced with situations where quick thinking and the right action could be the difference between life and death for our pets.
While first aid is never a substitute for veterinary care, it can buy precious time — keeping your pet safe and stable until you can connect with a professional veterinarian on Mygotovet for further guidance.
What is First Aid for Pets?
When we hear “first aid,” many of us picture the Red Cross rushing across a sports field. But in reality, first aid is just as important for pets — whether it’s stopping bleeding, clearing an airway, cooling down heatstroke, or simply keeping them calm until help arrives.
💡 Pro Tip: You don’t have to wait for an in-person visit — on Mygotovet, you can speak to a vet online immediately to guide you step-by-step through emergency care.
CONSULT A VET NOW
A True Story: Why Acting Fast Matters
Princess, a playful Rottweiler, once suffered a small ear injury that wouldn’t stop bleeding. Her owner wrapped it tightly following the directives of her vet after a virtual consultation.
When the vet arrived the next day, they discovered the injury was more serious as it involved a punctured blood vessel. Without that immediate first aid, Princess could have lost significant blood.
Lesson: Quick action saves lives. With Mygotovet, you can have a vet assess the situation instantly via video or chat before deciding on your next step.
Why First Aid Matters
First aid for pets aims to:
-
Preserve life – Reduce pain, anxiety, and prevent further injury.
-
Prevent further harm – Remove your pet from danger and control bleeding or other urgent issues.
-
Promote recovery – Sometimes first aid alone can lead to complete recovery, or it can prepare your pet for further treatment.
Recommended Articles
Essential Contents of a Basic Pet First Aid Kit
A good pet first aid kit should be customised to your pet’s lifestyle and needs. Here’s a starter list:
-
Vet’s contact info and Mygotovet’s online consultation link
-
Emergency procedure guide
-
Muzzle
-
Elizabethan collar
-
Latex gloves
-
Gauze pads, crepe bandages, adhesive strips
-
Scissors, tweezers
-
Clinical thermometer + lubricant
-
Instant cold packs
-
Antiseptic solutions (Chlorhexidine 2%, diluted iodine)
-
Cotton balls, adhesive tape
-
Sterile saline for eyes/ears
-
Towels
-
Notepad and pencil
-
Vet-approved medications (antihistamines, mild antibiotics, topical ointments)
Where to Store Your Kit
-
Keep it in an easily accessible, cool, dry place.
-
Have one in your home, one in your car.
-
Let all family members know where it is — and how to access Mygotovet online help if you’re not around.
-
Check expiry dates regularly.
4 Key Steps to Giving Pet First Aid
1. Safety First
Protect yourself — injured pets can bite or scratch. Use gloves, a muzzle, and speak calmly.
If you suspect contagious illness, wear a mask and limit contact.
Fast Help: You can share photos or videos of the situation with a Mygotovet vet in real time before touching your pet.
2. Assessment
Follow the ABC rule:
-
Airway – Make sure it’s clear.
-
Breathing – Check if they’re breathing. Start CPR if needed.
-
Circulation – Check for a pulse or heartbeat.
If stable, check for bleeding, broken bones, or signs of shock.
3. Intervention
Apply the right first aid measures for the problem at hand — but only if you’re confident.
Example: Apply gentle pressure to stop bleeding, flush wounds, or keep your pet still if you suspect fractures.
4. Seek Professional Help
Always follow up with veterinary care. If you can’t reach your local clinic immediately, book an instant Mygotovet consult to know whether your pet needs urgent in-person treatment or if you can continue home care.
Preventing Emergencies
While accidents happen, you can reduce risks by:
-
Keeping dogs leashed during walks
-
Removing hazards from your home and yard
-
Scheduling regular vet check-ups (can also be done online)
-
Feeding a balanced diet
-
Keeping vaccinations up to date
Find a Vet among our qualified providers or simply signup to Talk to a Vet Now
Frequently Asked Questions about Pet First Aid
1. Can I handle a pet emergency without going to a vet?
Basic first aid can stabilise your pet, but veterinary guidance, even via online vets is essential to avoid complications.
2. What if my pet is choking and I can’t reach the clinic?
Immediately perform first aid steps for choking and talk to a vet for guided assistance.3. How do I know if it’s serious enough to call a vet?
If your pet is bleeding, unconscious, having trouble breathing, or behaving abnormally, contact Mygotovet immediately for triage advice.4. Can I use human first aid kits for pets?
No. Many human drugs are toxic to pets. Always get veterinary advice first.
5. What’s the fastest way to reach a vet in an emergency?
Skip the travel — log into Mygotovet and connect to a verified vet instantly, 24/7.Animal Health & Blogs

19 September 2025
0 likesCaring for pets in Nigeria comes with unique challenges, from hot weather to limited access to proper veterinary se ...
Read More
