Basic
First Aid for Dogs
by
David the Dogman
As
an ardent reader of the Collins Dog Photoguide I came across this
article, which I feel, might be of interest to readers.
Traffic
Accidents
A
traffic accident is probably the most common cause of serious
injury to a cat or dog. Always approach the animal with caution,
it may react aggressively because of the pain.
Move
the dog as little as possible, but if you must move it, it is
probably best to use a blanket, sliding it underneath the dog.
Seek the assistance of another person and lift the dog gently
to safety. Check for heartbeat and any haemorrhaging. Attempt
to stem excessive bleeding by holding a clean pad or clean handkerchief
over the wound, binding it tightly with a makeshift bandage. Call
the nearest vet's surgery to warn of your arrival.
Burns
The
only recommended first aid is to clean off the offending substance
and immerse the body part under cold running water for as long
as possible. Seek professional advice immediately.
Heat
Stroke
This
occurs most commonly when a dog has been left alone on a hot day
without ventilation. If your dog has not already collapsed it
may be panting, vomiting or frothing at the mouth.
Remove
froth and lower the dog's temperature as soon as possible by placing
or dousing the animal in cold water.
Take the dog to the vet immediately where it will be treated with
drugs and more cold water.
Poisoning
Signs
of poisoning may include collapse, muscular twitching, vomiting,
bleeding or convulsion. Do not hesitate to contact the vet. Take
some of the noxious substance to the vet with you if you know
what it is. If the dog has recently swallowed the poison, try
to make it vomit. Salt and mustard in water will usually work
quickly, or a small piece of washing soda (sodium carbonate0 pushed
down the throat.
Drowning
It
is a popular misconception that all dogs can swim, but this is
not always the case. You must attempt to empty the dog's lungs
of water as soon as possible. You must attempt to empty the dog's
lungs of water as soon as possible.
Place the dog's head lower than its body, open its mouth and begin
to pump the chest by pressing down on the ribs and releasing the
pressure immediately. Repeat at five-second intervals.
Choking
Sometimes
a piece of stick, bone or small rubber ball may get stuck in a
dog's throat. Your dog may be unable to breath as a result and
swift action is necessary.
Open
the dog's mouth carefully and see if you can see the object. Pumping
the chest, as in the case of drowning (see
above) may dislodge the foreign body, get your dog to the vet
as soon as possible where the object can be removed under anaesthetic.
Commitment,
Firmness, but kindness.
Do
you have any problems with your pet? Then why not send your problem
to DAVID THE DOGMAN. David is a Canine Behaviourist who works
and lives in Marbella, Spain.
Tel/Fax (00345) 2883388. His web site is located at: http://www.thedogman.net.
David has his own radio and TV shows, and writes for many newspapers
and magazines. David has been working with dogs for many years
and started his career in Israel, working on the Border Police.
He has been involved in all forms of training, including air sea
rescue, air scent work, and has trained dogs for finding drugs.
David has devoted the past 10 years to studying behaviour and
the very passive approach. He does not use choke chains, check
chains, or any form of aggression.
David
The Dogman is available for private consultations in your home,
for further details telephone; Tel; (95) 2883388