Pet Care Resources

Recognising Common Pet Emergencies

In rural areas like ours, watch for these signs — act fast!

• Difficulty breathing, coughing, or collapse
• Severe vomiting/diarrhoea (especially with blood)
• Tick paralysis signs (wobbliness, weakness starting in hind legs — common in WA bush areas)
• Suspected poisoning (drooling, tremors, seizures)
• Trauma from accidents, snake bites, or heat stress
• Lethargy, pale gums, or inability to stand

Tip: For tick-prone areas, use monthly preventatives and check pets daily after walks.

Poisoning Risks in Rural WA

Common dangers include snail bait, rodenticides, chocolate, plants, and chemicals.

• Call the Animal Poisons Helpline immediately: 1300 869 738 (24/7 advice for pet owners)
• Do NOT induce vomiting unless advised
• Bring product packaging to the vet if possible

Prevention: Store chemicals securely and supervise pets outdoors.

Pet First Aid & Preparedness

• Learn basics: Check vital signs, control bleeding, and keep pets calm until vet help arrives
• Recommended online course: Australian Red Cross Pet First Aid (veterinary-approved)
• Useful app: First Aid for Pets Australia (available on Google Play/App Store)
• Build a pet first aid kit: Bandages, antiseptic, tick remover, muzzle, and emergency contacts

Trusted Pet Care Resources

• RSPCA Australia — Knowledgebase for pet care, adoption, and welfare
• RSPCA Knowledgebase — Hundreds of articles on health, behaviour & emergencies
• Australian Veterinary Association — Professional pet health info
• Animal Poisons Helpline — 1300 869 738 for poisoning emergencies

Local WA focus: Rural pets benefit from tick/farm hazard awareness — contact us for tailored advice.