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 become upset, making the problem worse. We must act calmly, even if going to a veterinary center as soon as possible. It's also a good idea to have a first-aid kit with special supplies, such as scissors, elastic bands, bandages, cotton, antiseptic, tweezers, sterile rubber gloves, hydrogen peroxide (do not use directly on wounds), and adhesive 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 warm water for several minutes and then apply a special topical solution, covering it with a non-adherent bandage. Never bandaging a burn without a suitable product, as it would be counterproductive. If the skin becomes inflamed and subcutaneous fluid appears, we need to see a vet quickly.
Essential first aid kit for dogs
A well-prepared kit Makes a difference in the first few minutes. Includes: sterile gauze, gauze and elastic bandages, self-adhesive bandage, compresses, adhesive tape, chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine (avoid alcohol on wounds), single-dose saline solution, blunt-tipped scissors, tweezers (and tick extractor), disposable gloves, digital thermometer (rectal use only for pets), needle-free syringes, towels or cloths, thermal blanket, instant cold packs and a small flashlight. If you go into the field, add a lightweight improvised splint (hard magazine or splint) and a phone list veterinary emergencies.
As a useful extension, add non-adherent dressings, hypoallergenic adhesive tape, styptic powder for minor nail bleeding, muzzle (do not use if vomiting or breathing difficulty is present), elizabethan necklace to avoid licking, pad protector y healing ointment for chafing. For outings, consider alcohol-free wipes and collapsible drinking fountain. Keep handy documentation of the dog, updated identification and phone numbers of a 24-hour clinic. Check and replenish the first aid kit every 3–6 months and check expiration dates.
Prepackaged or homemade first aid kit: both are valid if all elements are suitable for veterinary use. Avoid human medication (paracetamol, ibuprofen and similar are toxic for dogs) and consult your veterinarian before including antihistamines or specific anti-inflammatories for canines.
Rapid assessment: temperature, respiration and pulse
Before intervening, assess the dog's condition in seconds:
- Temperature: Normal temperature is between 38 and 39°C (rectal thermometer). If it is higher or lower than normal, contact your veterinarian.
- Breathing: Observe the thorax; at rest it should be around 10-40 breaths/minBelow this may indicate bradypnea; above this, respiratory distress.
- Femoral pulse: with the dog on its side, feel the femoral artery on the inner side of the thigh. Note its strength and rhythm.
- mucosa: pale pink, moist gums. Bluish or very pale are warning signs.
How to act in the most common situations
Heatstroke: Dogs are susceptible to high temperatures. Make them breathe fresh air and lower his temperature with wet (not ice-cold) towels on his neck, armpits, and groin. If he is conscious, offer him water. Don't immerse your pet in very cold water. See your vet as soon as possible.
Choking/suffocation: common due to ingestion of objects. If you see the object, carefully open your mouth and pulls out the tongue outward to visualize; extract only if accessible. If he coughs, let him cough. If he stops coughing and you can't reach him: in small dogs, invert them by holding the hips and give slight jolts; in large ones, raise the rear legs wheelbarrow style. If that doesn't work, apply 5 interscapular slapsIf the obstruction persists, perform the Heimlich maneuver (firm pressure under the ribs, but do not overdo it). After exhaling, check for breathing and, if necessary, gently resuscitate.
Wounds and bleeding: stop the blood with direct pressure using gauze or a cloth. Clean with saline or warm water and disinfect the area with chlorhexidine. Place a compression bandage that doesn't cut off circulation (your finger should fit under the bandage). Deep, very dirty, or non-healing cuts require a vet.
Fractures and accidents: At Mundo Perros we always recommend walking your dog on a leash to avoid accidents such as the abusesIf this is the case, we will have to take him immediately to the vet, moving him very carefully, moving him as little as possible and supporting him on a flat surfaceIf a limb is fractured, immobilize it with padding and a makeshift splint; for open fractures, don't try to align, cover sterilely and go urgently.
Bites and processionary caterpillars: Remove the stinger if visible with tweezers and apply local cold. In case of severe swelling, vomiting or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately for a possible allergic reaction. If there is contact with pine processionaryRinse with warm water without rubbing and wear gloves; seek urgent veterinary attention.
Ticks: Check it after walks through green areas. Extract with hook or clamp special, close to the skin, without twisting or crushing. Monitor for redness in the ring, fever, or apathy and consult if they appear.
Seizures: clear the surroundings to avoid bumps, do not hold your mouth and timekeepers duration. Once it ceases, consult without delay.
Poisoning: identifies the toxic and do not induce vomiting Unless directed by a veterinarian, do not muzzle a person if they are likely to vomit. Activated charcoal should only be used on the recommendation of a professional. Bring a sample or photo of the product.
Gastric torsion: Swollen abdomen, unsuccessful attempts to vomit, salivation and agitation are warning signs. It is a vital emergency; take it to the vet now.
Basic Canine CPR (only if not breathing and without pulse)
Lay the dog on its right side, stick out your tongue and close the muzzle. In small dogs, seal the mouth and nose; in large dogs, blow through the nose until you see the chest rise. Alternate 2-3 breaths to 5-10 chest compressions (hand on the upper part of the chest, arm straight, rapid and firm pace proportional to size). Reassess every minute and continue until signs return or you arrive at the veterinary center. Only perform the procedure if there is no breathing or pulse.
If you have received training, follow modern guidelines: compressions to 100-120 rpm, depth of 1 / 3-1 / 2 of thoracic diameter and relationship 30:2 (compressions:inflations), adapting the position of the hands to the type of chest. Prioritize quality compressions and rapid transfer.
These are very basic first aid rules, which are insufficient in extremely serious cases. Fortunately, they are taught in most specialized centers. workshops and courses related to this topic, so that we can train ourselves well and help our pets when they need it most. Integrate these practical guidelines—calm, rapid assessment, first aid kit ready, safe action and regular check-ups—will allow you to respond effectively until you get to the vet, reducing risks and improving your dog's prognosis.
