Pet First Aid: Safe Handling & Transport for Injured Pets

How to Safely Handle and Transport Your Injured Pet

In this section of our first aid for pet owners series, we will cover essential techniques for safely handling and transporting an injured pet.

When emergencies occur, it is crucial to ensure the safety of both yourself and your pet. Proper handling will help minimise the risk of further injury and allow you to transport your pet for prompt veterinary attention.

Approach with Caution:

• Speak calmly and reassuringly to your pet.
• Approach slowly, from the side, avoiding sudden movements that may startle them.
• Be aware that injured animals may be scared or in pain, increasing the risk of defensive behaviour (bites or scratches).

Use Equipment to Safely Handle your Pet:

Dogs

• A muzzle should be placed on all painful dogs as a precaution, before moving them or touching the painful area. If you do not have a muzzle, a strip of fabric or bandage can be gently tied around their nose.
• The exception to this rule is if your pet has injuries around their face or nose. In this case take care with placing a muzzle or covering their face as this may make it difficult for them to breathe.

Cats

• It is always safest to enclose an injured cat in a carry cage. If you do not have a carry cage available, a sturdy cardboard box with breathing holes could be used. 
• A towel can be used to gently cover the cat before picking it up to place in a carry cage.

Moving into a Car for Transport:

• Before moving or picking up your pet take note of the areas that are injured or likely to be painful. Take care to avoid touching these areas and try to provide support for them if possible.
• Cats and small dogs are best placed in a carry cage or crate. This provides a firm surface to limit movement which will decrease any pain from their injuries. It also allows them to be safely restrained for transport.
• Larger pets can be gently lifted onto a towel or stretcher, then moved into a car for transport. Ensure their neck and spine are supported while you are carrying them using the stretcher.
• If your pet is severely injured they will feel more secure on a solid flat surface, or in a crate. It is not recommended to physically hold your pet in the car while driving. 
• If your pet is unconscious or not fully responsive, they should be placed on their side with their head and neck in a normal position. Avoid bending their neck down towards the chest, or twisting the neck towards the body.  This position will ensure their airways stay open for unimpeded breathing. 
• Some pets will feel more comfortable during transport when covered with a blanket.

Don’t Panic

• It is very stressful dealing with an injured animal, especially when they are your beloved pet. Remaining calm will reassure your pet that you are there to help them. 
• Drive safely and responsibly to your veterinarian or nearest emergency clinic.
• If you are able please call ahead to your veterinary clinic to let them know you are on your way and an approximate time of arrival.

Disclaimer: It is important to remember that each situation may require different approaches to ensure the safety of both you and your pet. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about handling an injured pet, seek professional veterinary assistance immediately.

Stay tuned for the next section of our Pet First Aid series, where we will discuss managing bleeding and wound care in pets.