Doggy Emergency Care

Dogs are like children in many ways. There are going to be times during the life of your dog when you will need to know how to provide emergency care for your dog much as parents must do for their kids when an accident happens. No dog owner likes to think about their dog requiring on the spot care after an accident, but it is better to be prepared if the situation arises than stand there doing nothing when you could be ready to provide emergency care for your dog.

Two very important things you must keep in mind when emergency care for your dog is required. First, avoid becoming panicky and stay calm while you think through what treatment you can provide, and number two is always approach and touch the dog very gently. An injured dog is going to be in pain and frightened. This will cause the dog to lash out and bite simply because they are hurt and scared. It does not matter if you have owned the dog for years and he has always been gentle, be prepared for this sort of reaction from the dog.

The one event we all fear is our dog being hit by a vehicle. The injuries are normally going to be traumatic with broken bones, internal injuries, and bleeding. This is where you must stay cool and think clearly Begin to get control of the situation by calling your vet and informing them of what has happened and follow any directions they give. Tell them you will be there as soon as possible so they can be prepared to receive the dog. Next is to stop any bleeding by gently laying a clean cloth over the wounds and taping in place. If you are alone flag down the first person you can and place a blanket, tarp, coat, whatever is available beside the dog and roll him on this. Each person now picks up one end of this make-shift litter, and slowly moves the dog into your vehicle. Get to the vet while speaking calmly to the dog.

IF the dog has symptoms of bleeding from the mouth, nose, or anally, is convulsing, vomiting, cannot stand up, or may be twitching uncontrollably: these are indications the dog has consumed a poison. Immediately call the vet and follow their directions. You must get the dog to vomit so prepare a mixture of water and mustard. Force the dog to swallow this to induce the vomiting and get the dog to the vet immediately.

There are several other instances when emergency care for your dog will be required and we will cover these in another article so watch for this additional info.

Have you had to provide emergency care to your dog? Please relate your experiences and advice for our readers. Together we can save many dogs lives.