Electrocution

Electrocution occurs when an animal comes into contact with a live electrical current, most commonly by chewing on electrical cords. It can cause severe burns, respiratory distress, heart problems, and death.

Signs of Electrocution:

• Visible burns, especially around the mouth (may be white, grey, or charred)
• Difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing (may develop hours later due to fluid in lungs - pulmonary oedema)
• Collapse, loss of consciousness
• Muscle tremors or seizures
• Irregular heartbeat or cardiac arrest
• Signs of shock
• Singed fur

First Aid Actions:

1. SAFETY FIRST! Do NOT touch the pet or the electrical source directly until the power is turned off.
2. Turn Off Power: Switch off the electricity at the mains (circuit breaker) or unplug the appliance immediately.
3. Remove Pet from Source (Only After Power Off): Use a non-conductive object (dry wood broom handle, rubber gloves - use extreme caution) to move the pet away from the source if necessary.
4. Check ABCs: Check for Airway, Breathing, and Circulation (Pulse/Heartbeat).
5. Perform CPR if Necessary: If no breathing and no heartbeat, begin CPR (see CPR section).
6. Treat Burns: If there are visible burns, treat as thermal burns (cool water, cover loosely) after addressing breathing/circulation.
7. Keep Warm and Calm.
8. Seek IMMEDIATE Emergency Veterinary Care: Even if the pet seems to recover, life-threatening complications like pulmonary oedema (fluid in lungs) or heart rhythm disturbances can develop hours later.