• To stop bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound with a gauze pad or clean cloth.  If the blood soaks through, just add another pad on top and continue the pressure.  Lifting the pad could disturb the clot.  Do not wash wounds that are bleeding heavily.

• To stop bleeding on paws, apply a pressure bandage.  Put a gauze pad against the wound and slip a cotton sock over the foot.  Tape a plastic bag over the sock (the bags that newspapers come in work well).  For pets with small paws, cover the paw bandage with a condom.  Whatever covering you use should fit snuggly enough to apply pressure without restricting circulation.

Bandage Techniques

• To bandage your pet’s paw after the bleeding has stopped and it has been cleaned, disinfected and dried, place a gauze pad over the wound.  Run a doubled length of roll gauze from the bottom of the paw over the ends of the toes and up the top of the paw.  Then wrap a single-ply length of gauze around the paw, starting at the toes and moving up until it covers the folded gauze below it.  Overlap each layer and use even, gentle pressure.  Apply tape only at the top edge.  Slip a cotton sock over the bandage (cut it to fit if necessary) and tape that at the top edge to your pet’s fur.

Splinting

• Bubble wrap is an excellent splinting material because it pads the leg and protects it at the same time.  Gently wrap the bubble wrap around your pet’s leg or tail until it is a thickness that restricts movement.  Tape it in place by starting at the foot or tail tip and working up toward the body.

The tips provided in this section will have varying results depending on each situation.  As always, consult your veterinarian before administering ANY medications or products to your pet.  DO NOT use these tips as a substitute for proper or vital veterinary care.