Learning How To Care For Your Puppy In Case Of Emergency
If you are a dog owner, sooner or later you’ll be in a position where you need to give your dog some first aid. Dogs can get themselves into trouble, because of their curiosity and friendliness. It can be dangerous to be a dog. If that happens, the dog may need your help.
There are basic supplies you can keep on hand that can make a big difference when your dog has an emergency. If something bad happens, your dog may need you to provide emergency care until you can get him to the vet.
Definitely include gauze and tape in the medical kit. These are excellent for slowing or stopping bleeding. If you shop around you can often find blood-clotting topical products too.
For cleaning your dog’s wounds, nothing beats hydrogen peroxide. You also need to keep the dog warm and secure to prevent shock so a clean blanket is a good idea. Your first aid kit will also need, at minimum, antibiotic gel, safety scissors, tweezers, elastic bandages, absorbent cotton, and a rectal thermometer. Tuck in some antihistamines too in case of wasp or bee sting.
Learn the basics of first aid. This takes a bit of time but is well worthwhile. You also want to keep your vet’s number handy for emergencies. Your dog may someday need emergency medical treatment in the middle of the night – you should ask your vet what to do in such a case.
Often a vet will have instructions on how to reach him after hours. Also, some cities have pet emergency centers. If yours has one, it’s good to keep their number in your kit as well.
A dog that is injured and frightened may bite, even if it is normally a very even-tempered animal. It can be a good idea to keep a muzzle in the kit also.
Never give your dog Tylenol. Instead, ask your vet what pain killer to use for your pet. Stock this in the kit before your dog needs care, so that you have it on hand.
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