First Aid for Dog Owners
Stay Calm, stay prepared.
You don’t need to be a vet – but knowing a few first aid basics can make all the difference. Here’s what every dog owner should know in an emergency:
What to keep in a basic first aid kit:
- Clean bandages and gauze
- Dog-safe antiseptic wipes
- Tweezers (for ticks or splinters)
- Blunt scissors
- Saline solution (for eyes or wounds)
- A towel or blanket
- Emergency vet contact details
If your dog is choking
Choking is rare but can be life-threatening. If your dog can’t breathe, bark, or cough – act fast
Step 1: Check the mouth
- Gently open their mouth and pull the tongue forward
- Look for a visible object – remove it with your fingers if safe to do so
Never push deeper or reach blindly. Be mindful of bites.
Step 2: Abdominal thrusts (Heimlich manoeuvre)
- Stand behind your dog or hold them upright with their back against your chest
- Place your fist under the ribcage and wrap your other hand around it
- Give 5 sharp thrusts inward and upward to help dislodge the object
Step 3: Use gravity
- If your dog is small, gently lift them by the hips so their head points downward
- For larger dogs, hold their back legs like a wheelbarrow
This helps the object shift downward, away from the airway
Step 4: Deliver 5 back blows
- Use the palm of your hand to give 5 firm blows between the shoulder blades
- This should follow thrusts, or be used if thrusts aren’t working
Step 5: Repeat & seek help
- Alternate between abdominal thrusts and back blows
- If the object comes out, check breathing
- If they lose consciousness, check their ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) and begin CPR if trained
- Visit a vet immediately, even if they seem okay – choking can cause internal trauma or fluid in the lungs
Other common first aid scenarios
- Cut paw or bleeding wound:
Clean with saline, apply gentle pressure, and bandage loosely.
- Insect sting or allergic reaction:
Watch for swelling, hives, or breathing difficulty – call your vert immediately.
- Poison ingestion:
Do not wait. Call your vet or an emergency poison hotline straight away
- Seizures or collapse:
Stay calm, clear the space, and don’t restrain your dog. Contact a vet urgently
When in doubt – always contact your vet. Even small incidents can lead to complications if untreated.
Vet Visit Prep
Make every check-up smooth and stress-free.
Routine vet visits help catch health issues early – and keep your dog feeling their best.
Here’s how to make them easier for both of you:
- Stay calm. Your dog picks up on your energy. Keep your tone light and positive.
- Bring familiar items. A blanket or toy can offer comfort.
- Go on an empty-ish stomach. If allowed, this makes treat rewards more effective.
- Write down questions. It’s easy to forget in the moment – be prepared.
- Use routine visits wisely. Ask about weight, joints, skin, digestion, or behaviour changes – even if they seem small.
Most adult dogs should see a vet once a year. Seniors may benefit from visits every 6 months.
Dental Maintenance
Healthy mouth, healthy dog.
Good dental hygiene helps prevent gum disease, pain, and even heart issues.
- Brush regularly. Use a soft bristled brush and dog-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste). Aim for a few times a week.
- Use dental chews wisely. Choose natural, low-calorie options – and watch portion size.
- Feed for dental health. Within’s soft yet substantial texture helps reduce residue, and our fresh breath & healthy gums treats can be part of your routine.
- Look out for signs. Bad breathe, drooling, yellow teeth, or sore gums are signs to book a check-up.
Even if your dog eats well and chews often, annual dental checks are key.
