First aid for your dog

Secure and assess

Move the animal away from danger without putting yourself at risk. A conscious dog in pain can be muzzled (bandage, leash) unless it is vomiting, coughing or struggling to breathe.

Check three things: is it conscious? is it breathing? what colour are its gums?

• • Pink gums: circulation is adequate.
• • Pale, white or bluish gums: life-threatening emergency.
• • No breathing: call a vet immediately and set off without delay.

Stop bleeding

Press on the wound with a clean cloth for at least 5 minutes without lifting it to look. If the cloth soaks through, add another on top without removing the first.

Raise the injured limb if possible and transport without delay.

Choking

Open the mouth and remove an object only if it is visible and easy to grasp, without pushing it further in. For a choking dog, firm thrusts just below the ribs can help expel the foreign body.

Rush to the vet even if the object comes out.

Suspected poisoning

NEVER induce vomiting without veterinary advice: some products (caustics, hydrocarbons) worsen the damage on the way back up.

Note the product and the time, keep the packaging, and call your vet or an animal poison-control centre.

Heatstroke

Heavy panting, drooling and collapse after exertion or a hot car: this is a life-threatening emergency. Move the dog into the shade and cool it gradually with lukewarm water (never iced), wet the paws and belly, and provide airflow.

Do not cover it, and transport it as fast as possible while alerting the clinic.

Transport safely

Improvise a stretcher (rigid blanket, board) and immobilise the animal if you suspect a fracture or trauma. Tell the veterinary practice you are on the way so it can prepare.