Dog Obedience Training Blog
Dog First Aid 101
First aid for dogs, just like first aid for humans, is an effective combination of knowledge, supplies and skills, put into action for the benefit of your four-legged friend.
Good veterinary care is usually within easy reach of most dog owners. However, there are occasions when emergencies happen and your dog depends on you for the help. By planning ahead and practicing how to restrain your dog, examine your dog, and carry out basic dog first aid, you will find that you are prepared for most eventualities. In any emergency your responsibility is to quickly assess the situation, and then give your dog
The first aid he or she needs.
In serious emergencies your goal is to prevent further damage to any injuries that your dog may have sustained, reduce their pain and distress and, of course, sustain life.
When administering first aid be prepared and the following checklist should help.
• Always remember that your own safety is paramount
• Assess the situation
• Protect yourself and other from injury
• Examine the dog
• Diagnose injuries
• Threat injuries or treat for pain as appropriate
• Keep the dog warm, calm and quiet
• Protect the dog from further injury
First aid training:
Having a basic training in the subject will give you the confidence to deal with an emergency situation calmly and efficiency until an expert can take over. Most vet clinics run courses in basic first aid, and it is well worth enlisting in one of these.
Basic first aid items can be bought from your vet, local pharmacy or good pet stores. Every pet owner should have on.
First aid basics – ABC’s
The basic principles of first aid are as simple as ABC, Airway, Breathing, and Circulation.
The priority is to make sure the dog’s airway is clear to enable him or her to breathe, and ensure blood is circulating properly (that their heart is beating). When satisfied, you can deal with any other symptoms as appropriate.
Airway and Breathing
If the dog is unconscious in a collapsed state, check that he is breathing. If the tongue is blue-black, open the mouth and remove anything blocking the airway. Gently lift the chin to extend the dog’s neck to open the airway. If he still does not breathe, you can administer artificial respiration.
Circulation
Next, check for a heartbeat. Do this by putting your ear on the dog’s chest on the left side, just behind the elbow, and you will be able to hear it. Also check for a pulse – place fingers on the inside of the dog’s thigh in the groin area. If there is a no heartbeat you can begin chest compressions as you have learned in your first aid class.
Remember when it is safe and practical to do so, you should then contact a vet and arrange for further professional help.
I hope you never have to use any of the emergency and first aid information and resources that you’ll find at Dog First Aid 101. And I hope you’ll use all of the prevention and preparation information found on the site, so that your dog can continue to live a happy, healthy life with you.
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