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First Aid

© Pat Williams

Accidents happen, even to our pets. Are you ready in case of an emergency?

First and foremost, have your veterinarian's phone number ready just as you would your family doctor. A good vet should be happy to talk to you in case of emergency during business hours. What you do in the first five minutes could save your dog's life.

Second, find an emergency clinic in your area. Your regular vet will not be available 24/7 so the second number should be for an animal hospital that is open all the time to take emergency cases.

Have your dogs' records handy whether at home or on the road. The attending vet will need to know of any medical conditions your dog is being treated for and that he has had all his shots. I like to keep copies of these in a zip lock bag with the rest of my first aid supplies.

When you do contact your vet be prepared with as much information as possible; what the emergency is, when it happened, your dog's age, and breed and weight may be needed to determine what action is needed.

Third on your list should be a first aid kit. They are available through pet supply catalogs but you can put one together just as easily. Whether you buy one or put one together, familiarize yourself with the items and how they are used.

Inside your kit you will need the following:

Scissors: for cutting tape, wrap and for trimming fur away from the injury. If you can get surgical scissors, that's even better. They are very sharp yet have a blunted tip to avoid poking yourself or your pet.

Biocaine Lotion: for treatment of wounds, abrasions, minor burns and hot spots. ( A tip about hot spots: in many cases they are caused by shampoo left on the skin. I like to dilute my shampoo 3 parts water to 1 shampoo and make sure you rinse well. After your dog has dried and you are brushing him out, if you find white flakes that feel greasy when squeezed between your fingers it's most likely shampoo that was left in the fur. To be sure just add water and see if they melt.)

Gauze Pads: to clean, cover and cushion injuries.

Alcohol Prep Pads: to clean scissors, tweezers, and hands. (Do not use on wounds).

Cold Pack: to reduce swelling or pain. Never leave animal unattended when in use. The contents can be toxic.