Owners lack vital pet first aid knowledge, survey finds
"The figures highlight the extent of the skills gap when it comes to basic pet first aid skills" – Lynne James.
New research by the PDSA has found that most owners do not feel they have the skills and knowledge needed to provide first aid to their pet in an emergency.
In a new survey of pet owners, three quarters of respondents revealed that they did not know how to perform CPR on their pet. Seventy-four per cent were not sure how to respond to a seizure, and 52 per cent did not know what steps to take to provide first aid to a pet which broke a bone.
As well lacking knowledge about what to do when a pet needs first aid, the survey also revealed that 80 per cent of owners do not own a pet first aid kit.
The findings suggest the absence of training and education about pet first aid is to blame for owners being ill-prepared for an accident or emergency. The survey found that more than 90 per cent of owners have received no pet first aid training.
PDSA veterinay surgeon Lynne James said: “The figures highlight the extent of the skills gap when it comes to basic pet first aid skills. However, owners often don’t realise how important first aid training is until they need it, which can sometimes be too late.
“As with humans, taking the right actions in the first few minutes following an emergency before seeking veterinary attention can make a huge difference on the outcome of the situation. The good news is that while it may seem like a big task, there are practical tips that owners can learn, which will help them treat and potentially save the lives of their pets.”
To help give owners the knowledge they would need during an emergency, the PDSA has released a free guide on pet first aid which can be accessed online.
BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.
