Would you know what to do if your pet experienced a burn, a bite from another animal, or had ingested a poison? When thinking of pet first aid, the two most important words are "be prepared."

• Know which injuries or poisonings are most common for your pet. For example, because of their eating habits, dogs are more prone to ingesting something poisonous. Large breed dogs are at risk of developing life-threatening bloat. Outdoor cats more commonly have injuries related to cat fights. Reptiles are subject to burns from hot rocks or being too close to a basking light. Ferrets are more susceptible to heatstroke than many other animals. Birds can have bleeding from broken blood feathers and are extremely sensitive to poisoning from heated teflon. Fish are also prone to poisonings by airborne toxins and can become ill if there are changes in the water temperature or quality. If small pets are allowed out of their cages or escape, poisonous plants are a real risk.

• Know which first aid items you should include in a first aid kit. Because the common emergencies differ by species, the contents of species-appropriate first aid kits will also differ. In addition to a first aid kit, it is also helpful to have an evacuation kit ready in case you and your pet need to leave your house or geographical area because of a natural disaster or other emergency.

• Know first aid procedures. Information on how to handle a number of emergencies are included on our web site. There are also numerous books you can buy that can teach you basic first aid measures. For instance, the American Red Cross has written a book, Pet First Aid. To purchase a copy, contact your local Red Cross chapter or book store.

• Know who to contact in case of an emergency. Keep the phone numbers of your veterinarian, emergency clinic, and poison control center in a visible place within your home and in your vehicle.

For more information on basic first aid and when to seek immediate veterinary assistance, click on the species listed below.