Control Severe Bleeding in Pets Until Help Arrives

Severe bleeding in pets is an emergency requiring quick action to stabilize your pet before reaching a vet. Here’s how to handle it:

Stay Calm & Safe: Approach your pet slowly, using a soothing voice. Injured pets may bite, so use a towel/blanket to restrain or muzzle gently if needed (avoid if vomiting).

Identify Bleeding Type:

Arterial: Spurting/pulsing blood (bright red), most dangerous.

Venous: Steady flow (darker red).

Capillary: Slow oozing (minor).

Signs of severe bleeding: pooling blood, pale gums, rapid heart rate, or shock symptoms (weakness, rapid breathing).

Apply Direct Pressure: Use a clean cloth, gauze, or hand to press firmly on the wound. Don’t remove soaked cloths; add more layers. Hold for 5-10 minutes to allow clotting.

Elevate the Wound: For limb injuries (no broken bones), raise the leg above heart level to reduce blood flow. Avoid for head/torso wounds.

Pressure Points: If bleeding persists, press the main artery:

Rear leg: Femoral artery (inner thigh).

Front leg: Brachial artery (inner upper leg).

Tail: Caudal artery (base of tail).

Tourniquet (Last Resort): For uncontrollable limb bleeding, wrap a 2-inch-wide cloth above the wound, tie a knot, and twist with a stick until bleeding stops. Note the time applied; loosen every 20 minutes for 15-20 seconds. Risky—may cause limb damage.

Special Cases:

Paws: Wrap in gauze/towel; apply styptic powder, flour, or baking soda for broken nails.

Ears: Place gauze on both sides, fold ear over head, secure with tape (ensure breathing).

Internal Bleeding: Signs include pale gums, weakness, or labored breathing. Rush to vet immediately; you can’t stop this at home.

Transport to Vet: Keep pet still to avoid worsening bleeding. Use a blanket/stretcher for weak pets. Call ahead to an emergency vet like North MS Pet Emergency (662-893-7387) to prepare for your arrival. Vets may provide IV fluids, transfusions, surgery, or pain relief.

Tips:

Keep a pet first aid kit with gauze, bandages, and clotting agents like HemoSEAL or BleedClot.

Monitor for shock (pale gums, rapid pulse) and seek vet care fast.

Post-injury, keep pets indoors to prevent re-injury during recovery.

Have a pet first aid tip or experience to share? Post below or contact North MS Pet Emergency for urgent care!