Your pet is part of your family.  And just like any other member of the family, pets can become ill or injured.  Would you know how to care for your pet in an emergency?  Here are a few tips:

• Always approach a sick or injured animal slowly and cautiously.

• Watch the body expressions and sounds your pet makes to warn you.  Even your own pet can be aggressive when in pain or frightened.

• Do not make quick, jerky, or loud movements.  They might further scare your pet.

• When necessary, use towels or blankets to subdue cats or small dogs.

• Keep the phone number and address of your veterinarian in a convenient location.

• Have the phone number and address of an after-hours veterinary clinic on hand and keep directions to that clinic in the same place.  Whenever possible, call ahead to let them know you'll be coming.

Pay attention to what is normal for your pet so you can detect signals when something is wrong.

To learn more about caring for your pet in an emergency, take a Pet First Aid Course, purchase a Pet First Aid Kit or purchase a Pet First Aid Book.