Basic First Aid
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 hemorrhaging. 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 anesthetic.
Commitment, Firmness, but kindness.
About the Author:
Do you have any problems with your pet? Then why not send
your problem to DAVID THE DOGMAN. David
is a Canine Behaviorist 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 behavior
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
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