Pet CPR + First Aid Certification Manual: General Healthcare

Canine and Feline General Healthcare

Understanding your pet’s normal health and behavior can make it easier to recognize when something may be wrong. Dogs and cats should receive routine veterinary care appropriate for their age, breed, and health needs.

Proper nutrition, hydration, exercise, and grooming are important parts of general pet health. The appropriate amount of food, water, activity, and grooming varies among individual animals and may depend on factors such as age, breed, size and medical history.

Know What Is Normal for Your Pet

Pet owners and caregivers should become familiar with what is normal for their dog or cat, including typical activity level, appetite, breathing, behavior and physical appearance. Changes from a pet’s normal condition may help identify an illness or injury that requires closer attention or veterinary care.

Preventive Care

Preventive care — such as routine veterinary checkups, vaccinations, and parasite prevention — is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. Waiting until a pet appears sick to seek veterinary attention can allow treatable conditions to progress further before they're caught.

Routine Observation

Regular grooming and observation can help caregivers notice wounds, swelling, skin irritation, parasites or other physical changes that might otherwise be missed.

When Veterinary Care Is Needed

Pet first aid does not replace routine or emergency veterinary care. Contact a veterinarian when a pet develops significant, unexplained or worsening changes in health or behavior.