First Aid For Dogs That You Should Be Aware Of - Part 2

The knowledge of first aid procedures is an essential addition to anyone’s life, and it can save the lives of those around you.

This applies to your pups, too. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of first aid information that you can use for your pups in times of medical need.

Bee stings

Bee stings, and any other insect bites, can have a variety of results on a pup. This can range from minor symptoms like pain, itching, or swelling, to more serious ones like hives, breathing difficulties, vomiting, or fainting.

If your pup has been stung or bitten by an insect, identify any stringers left in the skin. Use the corner of a card of fingernail to scrape out the stinger – or get someone else to do so if you’re allergic! Then, apply a cool or ice compress to the affected area for two to three minutes. You can also make a paste from water and baking soda to neutralize a sting.

Do not use tweezers to pull out a stinger, and don’t give your pup any kinds of medications that have not been prescribed. After you’re done, keep an eye on your pup for any signs of serious adverse reactions to the sting. If you see any, then get veterinary care as soon as possible.

Snake bites

Snake bites may or may not be poisonous, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and assume that they are. If possible, and if it’s not too dangerous for you, try to identify the snake that bit your pup. It’s important to get medical care immediately.

Elevate or immobilize the bitten area if you can, and avoid touching it. Do not attempt to apply a tourniquet or use ice, and don’t try to drain the bite on your own. Keep your pup calm as you take him to the vet ASAP.

Burns

Fire, electricity, and chemicals can all result in burns, and these can occur anywhere on the body. Burns can get affected very easily, and severe ones may need reconstructive surgery. Don’t apply ice, ointment, or butter to burns, and don’t try to pop blisters or peel skin on your own. Seek emergency medical treatment as soon as you can.

Beforehand, put out flames and unplug or switch off the electrical source that caused the burn, if this applies to your situation. Thermal and electrical burns need to be treated with cool water compresses, while chemical burns should be flushed for fifteen minutes with tepid running water.

Poisoning

Pups who eat, inhale, or come into contact with items that are toxic to them may likely become poisoned from them. Some human foods, household cleansers, pest control products, antifreeze, and human medication can all cause poisoning.

If you suspect your pup has been poisoned, then immediately contact your vet, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, or a local human poison control center if the previous two are not available. Keep labels and containers of the toxic substance and try to provide an estimate of how much of it your pup interacted with, and when.

Ask your vet before attempting to induce vomiting, and never do so if your pup has ingested petroleum-based products or caustic substances, is having difficulty breathing, is unconscious, or cannot stand. If your pup does show the aforementioned symptoms, then bring them to a vet as soon as possible.

There you have it!

One last thing: remember to always muzzle an injured dog before tending to them, as pups in pain can often lash out, even if they know you very well. The last thing you need is to be injured, too. Keep an eye out for more installments in the series and do like and share away!