First Aid for Dogs
A calm, easy-to-reference guide for the moments when your dog needs help. First aid can help stabilize a pet, but it does not replace professional veterinary care.
When It’s an Emergency
Go to the nearest veterinary hospital immediately for trouble breathing, loss of consciousness, seizures, severe or uncontrolled bleeding, collapse, major trauma, or other life-threatening signs. Call the clinic on the way when possible so they can prepare for your arrival.
Bleeding & Wounds
Place a clean cloth or towel over the wound and apply firm, direct pressure.
- For severe bleeding, head to a veterinary hospital immediately.
- If blood soaks through the cloth, add another layer rather than pulling the first one off.
- Be cautious: pain and fear can make even a gentle dog react unexpectedly.
Choking
Signs may include difficulty breathing, pawing at the mouth, choking sounds, or blue-tinged lips or tongue.
- If your dog can breathe, keep them as calm as possible and seek veterinary care immediately.
- Only look in the mouth if you can do so safely.
- Remove a visible object only if it can be grasped without pushing it deeper or risking a bite.
Possible Poisoning
Contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service immediately—even if your dog seems normal, because some toxins can have delayed effects.
- Save the package, label, pills, plant, or other material involved.
- Be ready with your dog’s age, breed, weight, symptoms, substance and estimated amount.
- Do not induce vomiting or give medication unless a veterinary professional specifically tells you to.
Heatstroke
Heavy panting, excessive drooling, weakness, confusion, vomiting, diarrhea, collapse or seizures can signal dangerous overheating.
- Move your dog out of direct sun and into a comfortably cool area.
- Begin cooling with room-temperature wet towels around the neck, armpits and groin; a fan can also help.
- Seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Avoid immersing the dog in cold water.
Seizures
- Move furniture, other pets and hazards away.
- Do not restrain your dog and do not put your hands near the mouth.
- If possible, time the seizure and safely record a short video for your veterinarian.
- Afterward, keep your dog quiet and contact a veterinarian or emergency hospital.
Burns & Major Injuries
Burns, falls, vehicle injuries, suspected fractures and significant trauma deserve prompt veterinary assessment.
- Keep your face away from an injured dog’s mouth.
- Move them as little as practical if a back, neck or major orthopedic injury is possible.
- Call ahead and transport to veterinary care.
Allergic Reactions
Facial swelling, widespread hives, weakness, collapse or difficulty breathing can become an emergency.
- Difficulty breathing or collapse requires immediate emergency veterinary care.
- Do not give human medication unless your veterinarian specifically directs you to and provides the correct dose for your dog.
Before an Emergency Happens
- Save your regular veterinarian and nearest emergency hospital in your phone.
- Know the fastest route to emergency care.
- Keep your dog’s current medications and important medical information easy to access.
- Keep a stocked pet first-aid kit at home and another in the car when traveling.
Dog First-Aid Kit
A simple kit can help you respond while arranging professional care.
Poison Control
A consultation fee may apply. For any emergency, your veterinarian or nearest veterinary emergency hospital should be your primary source of medical care. This page is educational and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a licensed veterinarian.