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. The American Red Cross Dog First Aid and Cat First Aid books can help you learn more about caring for your pet in an emergency. To purchase these books, contact your local Red Cross, or purchase it online.

Related Links:

• American Kennel Club
• American Red Cross Community Services: Animal Assisted Therapy Brings Love and Companionship
• American Humane Society
• The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
• The Ark Trust, Inc.
• Humane Society of the United States
• Johns Hopkins University, Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing
• Morris Animal Foundation
• Pets Welcome
• San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SFSPCA)

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