Emergency Care & Advice

At Derby Animal Welfare Group (DAWG), the well-being of your animal is our top priority. While we are here to support our community, it is crucial to remember that in any emergency situation or if you have concerns about your pet's health, you should always contact your local veterinarian immediately for professional advice and treatment.

This page provides some general information and advice that may be helpful in certain situations while you are seeking veterinary care. However, please do not delay contacting a vet if you are worried about your pet. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

If your pet is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, such as difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, has ingested a known poison, or you suspect cane toad poisoning, please seek immediate veterinary attention. Do not attempt to treat them yourself.

General Advice (Always consult your vet for specific concerns):

• Bleeding: Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth. Avoid removing the cloth if it becomes soaked; instead, apply another layer on top - Contact the vet ASAP.

• Choking: If your pet is conscious, try to see if you can safely remove the obstruction. If they are unconscious, perform the Heimlich manoeuvre for pets (seek guidance online or from your vet beforehand).

• Burns: For thermal burns, apply cool (not ice-cold) water to the affected area for 10-15 minutes. For chemical burns, flush the area with large amounts of water and contact your vet immediately.

• Poisoning: If you suspect your pet has ingested poison (other than cane toad), do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so by your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline 1300 869 738. Take the suspected poison container with you to the vet.

• Heatstroke: Move your pet to a cool, shaded area and offer small amounts of cool water. Apply cool, wet towels to their body, especially the neck, armpits, and groin. Seek immediate veterinary care.

• Seizures: Clear the area around your pet to prevent injury. Do not try to restrain them or put anything in their mouth. Time the seizure. Contact your vet immediately after it stops or if it lasts longer than a few minutes.  

• Sudden Collapse or Weakness: Keep your pet warm and quiet and seek immediate veterinary attention.

• Suspected Cane Toad Poisoning: In Derby, cane toads are a significant risk. If you suspect your pet has licked, mouthed, or come into contact with a cane toad, immediately wipe their gums and mouth out thoroughly with a damp cloth for several minutes, being careful not to let them swallow the wash water. Look for signs like excessive drooling, vomiting, agitation, tremors, or seizures. Seek immediate veterinary attention – this is a medical emergency.

Remember, these are general first-aid tips and are not a substitute for professional veterinary care.

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