Be Prepared: First Aid Essentials Every Pet Owner Should Know

Emergencies can strike at any time—whether it’s a sudden cut from a sharp object on a trail or an unexpected reaction to a bee sting in the backyard. As pet parents in Chilliwack and surrounding areas like Sardis, and Hope know, preparedness is key to keeping our furry friends safe. April marks National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, a timely reminder of how crucial it is to understand basic first aid and have the right supplies on hand. At Vedder Mountain Veterinary Clinic, we’re committed to helping you be ready for anything.

Why Pet First Aid Awareness Matters

Knowing what to do in the first few moments of an emergency can save your pet’s life. From choking incidents to heatstroke, being able to recognize the signs and respond appropriately can make all the difference. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) provides a helpful list of First Aid Tips for Pet Owners, including handling bleeding, seizures, and burns.

Building Your Pet First Aid Kit

Every pet owner should have a stocked first aid kit that’s easily accessible at home and when traveling. Some essentials include:

• Gauze pads and adhesive tape
• Digital thermometer
• Hydrogen peroxide (for inducing vomiting—only under veterinary direction)
• Tweezers and blunt-end scissors
• Saline eye solution
• Disposable gloves
• Emergency contact card (vet info and poison control)

For a complete checklist, the AVMA offers a downloadable Pet First Aid Brochure that’s especially helpful for creating or updating your kit.

Common Springtime Hazards in British Columbia

With spring in full bloom, certain environmental dangers become more prevalent. Insects like ticks and bees, sharp garden tools, and fertilizers can all pose threats. The BC SPCA highlights the risk of ticks in our region and offers guidance on prevention and removal.

Also, never underestimate the danger of common plants or yard products. Many fertilizers, mulches, and flowers such as lilies can be toxic to cats and dogs. The ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center has an extensive list of substances that are harmful to pets, plus steps to take in case of exposure.

Taking a Pet First Aid Course

Reading about pet first aid is one thing—practicing it is another. We encourage local pet parents to consider taking a hands-on class. St. John Ambulance offers a Pet First Aid Course that teaches everything from CPR techniques to wound treatment and bandaging. These skills can build your confidence and ensure you're truly ready in an emergency.

What to Do in an Emergency

In the event of a serious incident, your first step should be to contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic. For poisoning cases, immediately call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center or another trusted helpline. Staying calm and following the guidance of professionals can prevent further harm to your pet.

Here at Vedder Mountain Veterinary Clinic, our team is always available to help you navigate urgent situations and answer questions about first aid preparedness. We’re always happy to discuss preventive wellness care that can help reduce the risk of emergencies. If you ever have questions about how to be better prepared for unexpected situations, our team is here to support you and your pet’s safety.

Pet first aid isn’t just about treating wounds—it’s about peace of mind. Being prepared can keep your pet safe, minimize complications, and even save lives. This National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, take a few minutes to stock your kit, learn the basics, and check in with your vet. If you have questions or would like to schedule a preventive wellness visit, reach out to our team at Vedder Mountain Veterinary Clinic.