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First Aid for Pets


Foreign Bodies

Eye - suspect that something has become lodged in the eye if your pet suddenly holds one eye closed and appears in discomfort. If they will let you, try to open to lids to see if there is an obvious grass lawn etc., lodged under the lids. This may be carefully removed or flushed out with a small amount of warm, salty water (one teaspoon to a pint of water). It is important in all cases of eye injury to have the eye checked by a vet as permanent damage can result if incorrectly treated.

Ear - again sudden onset discomfort showing as head shaking or scratching/ holding the affected ear down. Try to see if anything can be grasped at the top of the ear canal. However, it is easy to damage the delicate lining of the ear, and the majority of foreign bodies require removal under sedation or anaesthesia.

 

Mouth/Throat - usually the animal will be in severe distress - panicking to remove the object by pawing at the mouth/ retching and drooling. If breathing is affected then try to clear the object but avoid getting bitten. It may be necessary to again anaesthetise your pet to safely remove the article.

Swallowed - if significant, the first sign is usually persistent vomiting. If your pet is generally unwell, then this might indicate a perforation of the bowl, and immediate attention should be sought.

Foot - Thorns and grass seeds are common foreign bodies between the pads, particularly of dogs. These usually require removal under sedation or anesthesia as they can break off if an attempt is made to remove in a conscious patient.