Few things are as frightening and overwhelming as an on-the-spot emergency when it involves our pets.
No matter how well we may care for our dogs, accidents can and will happen, along with sudden health problems. Being prepared and knowing how to act in case of an emergency will allow you to handle the situation in a cool manner and provide your dog with the best chances of recovering fast.
Below comes the guide explaining the most common situations of emergencies happening with dogs, what to do, and when immediate assistance of a veterinarian is required.
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Recognizing a Dog Emergency
Not all health problems require the need to visit an emergency vet; however, the difference between urgent symptoms and non-urgent symptoms is very important to know.
Below are some of the most common symptoms that require immediate medical attention.
1. Respiratory difficulty: This includes signs of respiratory distress, suffocation, or persistent coughing that require immediate veterinary attention.
2. Collapse or unconsciousness: This sudden collapse, weakness or unconsciousness requires immediate veterinary treatment.
3. Profuse Bleeding: Open wounds with profuse bleeding that do not stop after a few minutes require professional treatment.
4. Abdominal swelling or bloating: In most breeds, this may indicate a sudden illness called gastroenteritis.
5. Toxic Ingestion: If your dog has eaten something toxic such as chocolate, grapes or other chemicals, you should contact your vet immediately.
6. Concussion or neurological problems: Although a single seizure is not an emergency, by definition, multiple seizures, prolonged seizures, and new neurological symptoms require immediate evaluation.
Emergency to Emergency Actions
1. KEEP ALIVE: Dogs pick up on our emotions and your calm and confident attitude will pay off. to them. Breathe deeply, slowly and safely.
2. Check: Take a few seconds to check your dog’s symptoms. This will help you to show their condition to the doctor.
3. CALL AN EMERGENCY VET: If you are in doubt about the severity of your dog’s illness, it is best to call a veterinary hospital within 24 hours for advice.
4. Gather supplies: If a trip to the vet is necessary, quickly obtain your dog’s medical records, medications he is taking, and contact information for his veterinarian.
5. FIRST AID: In some situations, such as minor cuts, first aid can stabilize your dog until you get to the vet.
Common Emergency Procedures
Emergency procedures are an effective way to maintain your dog’s safety as long as professional help is available.
1. Wounds and bleeding: For minor wounds, you can wash the dog’s wound with water and gently wrap it in gauze. For increased bleeding, apply direct, firm pressure to the bleeding area with a clean cloth and gauze. Do not use human contact strips that stick to fur, as this can cause problems. If the bleeding doesn’t stop or the wound seems deep, take your dog to the vet.
2. AGINE: If your dog is choking on something, open the dog’s mouth and see if you can find the blockage. If you can, take it out gently and try to push it back. If this is not possible or if your dog is having trouble breathing, consult a veterinarian. Avoid attempting the Heimlich if you are not properly trained because you can injure yourself if done incorrectly.
3. Poisoning: There are many things in and around your home that can be toxic to dogs, from food to plants to cleaning products. If you suspect your dog has ingested something harmful, be sure to call the pet poison hotline or your veterinarian. The information helps the doctor’s plan, because some substances require immediate treatment.
4. Heatstroke: Dogs are prone to heatstroke, especially when it’s hot outside or active in hot weather. If your dog shows any of the following symptoms – excessive lethargy, drooling, lethargic behavior in extreme heat – seek shelter immediately. Give them cold water, not ice, and put a wet towel on their legs and stomach to cool them down. Get to a doctor immediately because heatstroke can be fatal in a short time.
Planning for Emergencies
It is always better to handle emergencies by being prepared for them. Having an emergency plan, at least first aid supplies in stock, and knowing the closest 24-hour veterinary hospital does make a difference. Here is your checklist to keep you prepared:Know Your Emergency Vets: Keep contact details for your regular vet and the closest 24-hour vet hospital saved in your phone for any kind of emergency.
– Stock a First Aid Kit: Gauze, nonadhesive bandages, tweezers, a thermometer, antiseptic wipes, and medications as needed.
– Learn Basic First Aid: Other things taught in basic first aid courses for pets may include how to handle common issues: choking, wound care, and CPR in dogs.
The most important rule in an emergency is not to wait when in doubt. Call your vet or go to an emergency hospital if any of the following occur: Your dog is in pain or distressed. Symptoms get worse or better, it gets worse and new symptoms appear.
Emergency services for animals are not easy. But being prepared and knowing first aid and tools can be very effective in keeping your dog from harm in these emergency situations. Every minute is wasted during a crisis, so if your dog is in trouble, don’t hesitate to seek help. The faster you act, the better off your furry friend will be.
