As with human beings, sometimes our pets urgently need to be cared for in the event of an accident or serious unforeseen event. Therefore, experts recommend that we learn some basic notions of first aid, in order to minimize the damage our dog has suffered and even save his life. In this article we describe some of them, very different depending on the situation.
First of all, it is essential keep calm. Dogs detect our mood, and can easily be altered and thereby worsen the problem. We must act calmly, although going to a veterinary center as soon as possible. It is also convenient to have a first-aid kit with special utensils, such as scissors, elastic bands, bandages, cotton, an antiseptic, tweezers, sterile rubber gloves, hydrogen peroxide and tape, among others.
We will use one or the other depending on each case. If it is, for example, a mild burn, we can wash the area with water and then apply a special topical solution, then covering it with a bandage. Never bandage the burn without first applying the product, as it would be counterproductive. If the skin becomes inflamed and subcutaneous fluid appears, we have to go quickly to the vet.
On the other hand, as we have mentioned on occasion, dogs are very susceptible to high temperatures, so it is convenient to know how to act in front of a heatstroke. In this case, we have to make the animal breathe fresh air and lower its body temperature with not too cold water baths. If he is conscious, we should encourage him to drink. The intervention of a specialist will also be necessary as soon as possible.
As for the suffocation, it is very common due to ingestion of foreign objects. If it is not possible to extract said object by opening the animal's mouth and pulling its tongue out, its hind legs will have to be raised, so that the dog coughs and the object falls by itself. You have to keep the animal in this position (without ever lifting it off the ground) and try to reassure it so that it breathes slowly, so that what is obstructing the routes is expelled.
From Mundo Perros We always advise walking the dog on a leash to avoid accidents such as the abuses. If this is the case, we will have to take him immediately to the vet, but moving him with great care, moving him as little as possible and supporting him on a flat surface. If any limb is fractured, make sure not to make sudden movements with it. And if there is bleeding, we will try to stop it by applying pressure with an item of clothing or a cloth.
These are very basic rules of first aid, which in extremely serious cases are insufficient. Fortunately, most specialized centers teach workshops and courses related to this theme, so that we can train well and help our pets when they need it most.