Animals on the streets face emergencies every day. Accidents, injuries, heatstroke, poisoning, and illness are common, yet most people panic or ignore the situation simply because they don’t know what to do. The truth is, basic awareness and timely action can save an animal’s life.

You don’t need to be a veterinarian to help. You just need calm thinking and the right steps.

1. Road Accidents

Road accidents are one of the most common emergencies for street animals. Dogs, cats, cows, and even birds are often hit by speeding vehicles.

What you should do:

• First, ensure your own safety and slow down traffic if possible

• Do not move the animal roughly

• Check if the animal is breathing

• Call a local animal rescue NGO or animal ambulance immediately [9890382994] Pulgaon

• If the animal is conscious, keep it calm and warm

Never pour water into the animal’s mouth or force it to stand.

2. Bleeding Wounds and Injuries

Cuts, bite wounds, and deep injuries can cause severe blood loss and infection.

What you should do:

• Use a clean cloth to gently press and stop bleeding

• Do not apply turmeric, powder, or chemicals

• Avoid touching the wound directly with bare hands

• Call a rescue team or veterinarian as soon as possible

Infections spread fast if wounds are ignored.

3. Heatstroke and Dehydration

During summers, heatstroke is a silent killer for animals. Symptoms include excessive panting, weakness, vomiting, or collapse.

What you should do:

• Move the animal to shade immediately

• Offer small amounts of water (do not force)

• Sprinkle normal (not ice-cold) water on paws and body

• Call for medical help

Keeping water bowls outside your home can prevent this emergency.

4. Poisoning

Animals may consume poisoned food, chemicals, or garbage. Poisoning cases are extremely critical.

Signs include:

• Vomiting or frothing

• Seizures or shaking

• Difficulty breathing

• Sudden collapse

What you should do:

• Do NOT give milk or home remedies

• Do NOT induce vomiting

• Rush to a veterinary hospital or call an animal ambulance immediately

Time is crucial in poisoning cases.

5. Fractures and Broken Limbs

Fractures can happen due to accidents or falls. The animal may limp, cry, or refuse to move.

What you should do:

• Do not try to straighten the limb

• Restrict movement

• Keep the animal warm and calm

• Arrange immediate transport to a vet or rescue team

Wrong handling can cause permanent damage.

6. Animal in Shock

Shock can occur after accidents, severe pain, or blood loss.

Signs include:

• Weak pulse

• Pale gums

• Cold body

• Unresponsiveness

What you should do:

• Keep the animal warm

• Lay it on its side

• Do not give food or water

• Seek emergency veterinary care immediately

Shock can be fatal if not treated quickly.

7. Newborn or Abandoned Animals

Many people mistakenly pick up puppies or kittens thinking they are abandoned.

What you should do:

• Observe from a distance for a few hours

• Mother often leaves to find food

• If babies are injured, cold, or crying continuously, call a rescue group

• Do not feed cow’s milk to puppies or kittens

Wrong feeding can kill newborns.

8. Aggressive or Panicked Animals

An injured animal may behave aggressively due to pain and fear.

What you should do:

• Do not crowd the animal

• Keep distance

• Use cloth or cardboard to guide movement

• Call trained rescuers

Never attempt to handle aggressive animals alone.

9. Birds in Trouble

Birds often collide with glass or wires.

What you should do:

• Gently place the bird in a ventilated box

• Keep it in a quiet, dark place

• Do not force feed water

• Contact a bird rescue expert

Most birds recover with rest and care.

10. When in Doubt, Call for Help

If you’re unsure what to do, the best step is to call an animal welfare NGO or veterinarian. Delaying help often worsens the condition.

At Blue Cape Animal Rescue & Welfare Foundation, we handle emergencies daily—from accidents to critical medical cases. Many lives are saved because someone chose to act instead of walking away.

Your Action Can Save a Life

Animal emergencies are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. Staying calm, acting responsibly, and seeking help can turn a tragic situation into a rescue story.

You don’t need special skills to save an animal—
You just need awareness, compassion, and courage.