CPG First Aid & Emergency Response 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A dog begins seizing on the grooming table. What is the FIRST action the groomer should take?
- Restrain the dog firmly to prevent injury
- Move the dog to the floor and clear the area of hazards (Correct answer)
- Insert a finger into the dog's mouth to prevent biting
- Immediately call the owner and wait for instructions
Correct answer: Move the dog to the floor and clear the area of hazards
Lower the dog to the floor and clear surrounding hazards to prevent injury during a seizure; never restrain or place anything in the mouth.
Question 2: Which sign most strongly indicates a dog is experiencing heat stroke rather than simple overheating?
- Panting rapidly
- Bright red or pale gums with a body temperature above 104°F (Correct answer)
- Seeking a cool spot to lie down
- Drinking water excessively
Correct answer: Bright red or pale gums with a body temperature above 104°F
Altered gum color (bright red or pale/white) combined with a rectal temperature above 104°F are hallmark signs of heat stroke requiring emergency care.
Question 3: A cat in the grooming salon collapses and is unresponsive. After confirming no heartbeat, what compression-to-breath ratio is recommended for feline CPR?
- 15:2
- 30:2 (Correct answer)
- 5:1
- 10:2
Correct answer: 30:2
The current veterinary CPR guideline (RECOVER) recommends a 30:2 compression-to-ventilation ratio for cats.
Question 4: A dog's nail is cut too short and bleeds persistently. After applying styptic powder fails to stop the bleeding after 5 minutes, what is the appropriate next step?
- Apply a tight rubber band around the toe
- Wrap the paw with a bandage and contact the owner to seek veterinary care (Correct answer)
- Submerge the paw in cold water indefinitely
- Cauterize the nail with a hot tool
Correct answer: Wrap the paw with a bandage and contact the owner to seek veterinary care
If bleeding does not stop within a few minutes, bandage the paw and advise the owner to seek veterinary evaluation to rule out a clotting disorder.
Question 5: Which of the following is the correct location to assess a pulse on a dog during an emergency?
- Behind the front knee on the radial artery
- Inner thigh on the femoral artery (Correct answer)
- Side of the neck on the jugular vein
- Under the chin on the lingual artery
Correct answer: Inner thigh on the femoral artery
The femoral artery, located on the inner thigh, is the most accessible and reliable pulse point in dogs.
Question 6: A groomer discovers a dog has ingested clippers lubricating spray. What is the recommended first response?
- Induce vomiting immediately with hydrogen peroxide
- Give the dog milk to dilute the substance
- Contact ASPCA Animal Poison Control and follow their guidance (Correct answer)
- Wait to see if symptoms develop before acting
Correct answer: Contact ASPCA Animal Poison Control and follow their guidance
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) provides expert guidance on whether and how to treat chemical ingestion in pets.
Question 7: A dog is brought in with a suspected broken leg. How should the groomer handle the dog before the owner arrives?
- Attempt to splint the leg with available materials
- Keep the dog calm and still, minimizing movement of the injured limb (Correct answer)
- Massage the area to improve circulation
- Allow the dog to walk around to assess whether the leg is truly broken
Correct answer: Keep the dog calm and still, minimizing movement of the injured limb
Keeping the dog calm and immobilizing the injured limb without improvised splinting reduces the risk of worsening a fracture.
CPG First Aid & Emergency Response 2
A dog begins seizing on the grooming table.
What is the FIRST action the groomer should take?