Knowing basic first aid for your dog can mean the difference between life and death. This guide covers the most common emergencies with clear, step-by-step instructions. First aid is a temporary measure โ always contact your vet as the priority.
Poisoning
- Common poisons: chocolate, grapes/raisins, xylitol (sweetener), slug pellets, antifreeze, ibuprofen, rat poison
- DO NOT make your dog vomit unless specifically told to by a vet
- Note what was eaten, how much, and when
- Animal PoisonLine: 01202 509 000 (24/7, ยฃ35โ45 per case) โ they assess whether a vet visit is needed
- Take packaging/photos to the vet
Bloat / GDV (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
This is the most time-critical canine emergency. Fatal within hours without surgery.
- Signs: Unproductive retching (trying to vomit, only white foam), swollen/hard belly, restlessness, drooling, collapse
- Most common in large, deep-chested breeds (Great Danes, German Shepherds, Boxers, Setters)
- Action: Call your emergency vet immediately. Drive straight there. Do NOT give food/water or massage the belly
Heatstroke
Rule: Cool first, transport second.
- Signs: Excessive panting, bright red gums, drooling, vomiting, collapse, seizures
- Move to shade/cool area immediately
- Pour/spray cool (NOT ice-cold) water over body โ focus on neck, belly, thighs. Use a fan if available
- Do NOT use ice or ice-cold water โ this constricts blood vessels and traps heat
- Transport to vet once cooling has started
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
For dogs that have stopped breathing and have no heartbeat:
- A โ Airway: Tilt head back gently, open mouth, clear any obstruction
- B โ Breathing: Close mouth, seal your lips over nostrils, give 2 rescue breaths (watch chest rise)
- C โ Circulation: 30 chest compressions at 100โ120/min (rhythm of “Stayin’ Alive”), then 2 breaths. Repeat
- Continue until you reach a vet or the dog regains consciousness
FAQs
When should I go to an emergency vet?
Go immediately if your dog has: difficulty breathing, collapse, suspected poisoning, bloat symptoms, continuous seizures, severe bleeding, inability to urinate, or major trauma. Don’t wait โ call ahead so the vet team can prepare. Most practices have an out-of-hours number that redirects to an emergency service.
Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Jenkins, MRCVS
Dr. Jenkins is a fully practicing veterinary surgeon in the UK with over 15 years of clinical experience in small animal medicine and canine behaviour. She reviews and verifies our health content to ensure medical accuracy.
