Everyone knows dogs love to get up to mischief. Most of the time it’s harmless but sometimes disaster strikes. These at home first aid tips could help to save your dogs life should the worst happen.
Choking
If your pet is choking but can still breathe you want to keep them calm as you head to your nearest vet. Should their gums start turning blue and they are in distress then lay your dog on his side and put your hands at the very edge of his ribcage. Press down and forward in quick firm strokes. If this doesn’t dislodge the object get to your nearest vet immediately.
Car accidents
If your dog accidentally gets hit by a car find a board and strap him down to minimize movement and rush to your nearest vet. Avoid wrapping anything around the chest as this can hinder their breathing. If you see any broken bones do not attempt to splint them yourself.
Once inside the car wrap them in a warm blanket to minimize the risk of entering shock. If any head trauma was sustained tilt the board so that their head is raised above their body as you transport them to the clinic.
Even if your pet seems unharmed you need to bring them to a clinic as soon as possible. Less obvious internal injuries can be just as life threatening and they need to be examined by a trained professional.
Poisoning
If your pet gets into something they shouldn’t have you want to call your local vet immediately or call the ASPCA pet poisoning hotline (888-426-4435). Never induce vomiting unless advised by a professional since many toxins are corrosive and can cause choking or damage their esophagus.
If you need to induce vomiting a diluted formula of 3% hydrogen peroxide (based on your dogs weight) can be administered with an eye dropper. After a few minutes if this doesn’t cause your dog to vomit repeat the process.
Punctures, Cuts or Bites
Any cut or flesh wound has the potential to become infected so consult a veterinarian to get it checked out. If your dog is bleeding, apply sterile gauze to the area and apply pressure until the bleeding stops. If anything is protruding from the wound don’t attempt to remove it yourself.
If the wound is not bleeding, clean the area with clean water or a saline solution. Rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide can damage the tissue. Apply sterile gauze and wrap the area with a bandage to stop your dog from aggravating the wound.
Seizures
In the event of a seizure, move nearby objects out of the way to reduce the risk of injury. Keep calm and talk to them in a reassuring voice until it passes. Do not try to restrain them as this can cause further damage.
Heatstroke
First you want to move your pet out of direct sunlight into a nice shady spot. Place a cool wet towel around their neck taking care not to cover their nose, eyes or mouth. Pour cool water on their abdomen and especially between their hind legs. Repeat this process by replacing the towel and using more cool water until you can get your pet to a vet.
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