•
NATURAL
PET CARE ARTICLES •
• PET
CARE PRODUCTS •
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
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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
