In an emergency, the following also applies to dogs: Quick first aid for the dog is good help. But always think about your own safety first! If your dog is in shock or pain, it may react aggressively. He doesn't know that you only want to help him. You should therefore only approach an injured dog very carefully. Keep calm and don't panic. Otherwise your insecurity will be transferred to the dog.
TIP - this is how you act in an emergency
- If possible, seek help and act quickly.
- keep calm
- If your dog is breathing freely, tie his snout with gauze for your own safety.
- Lay the animal stretched out flat on the right side of the body.
- If your dog is bleeding from its muzzle or nose, you need to keep its head low.
- Airways must be kept clear at all times.
First aid for injuries
In the case of injuries, treat severe bleeding immediately. Otherwise your dog will lose too much blood! Stop the bleeding with a pressure bandage, or a clean handkerchief if necessary. Apathetic behavior and circulatory problems can indicate internal injuries. After applying the pressure bandage, you should contact the veterinarian immediately.
In case of poisoning
Dogs have no place in garbage cans and places where poisons are stored! But also watch out for poisons when you go for a walk, for example rat poison . The first signs of poisoning are excessive salivation, tremors, motor disorders, shortness of breath, vomiting and diarrhea. If you suspect poisoning, you must consult a veterinarian! If you know what your dog ingested, please take a sample with you to the vet.
In a car accident
If you have a car accident and you are doing well so far, you should first secure the scene of the accident so that you and the injured animal are not threatened by any further dangers. Then provide first aid according to the ABC rule :
A = Clear airway
B = ventilation
C= Circulation, ie to stabilize the circulation
Above all, remember to fix or leash the dog to avoid subsequent accidents. Then call the veterinarian and make the animal transportable. Move the dog as little as possible!
Correct behavior in case of heat stroke
Make sure that your dog has enough shade in the summer months and that he gets enough liquid . Never leave your dog alone in the car, not even with the window half open! Signs of heat stroke are motor disorders, severe panting, apathetic behavior, vomiting and shock. Cool the dog with cold water (especially on the head) and massage to stimulate circulation. See a vet as soon as possible. It's about minutes!
Correct behavior in the event of signs of illness
In the event of accidents and illnesses, your dog depends on your safe and prudent reaction. As a responsible dog owner, you should be able to assess the situation correctly at the first sign of problems. However, the veterinarian does not have to be consulted immediately with every abnormality. The following list shows you how you should react to which symptoms.
WATCH DOG
- loss of appetite
- excessive thirst
- slight lameness
- occasional vomiting
- irregular, thin stool
- unpleasant smell, the cause of which cannot be determined
- occasional bloating
TO THE VET AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
- Eye problems such as cloudiness or heavy tearing
- Hypothermia / Frostbite
- Miscarriage and protracted afterbirth
- frequent vomiting
- Diarrhea
- itching
- swallowed object
- swelling
- severe flatulence
TO THE VET IMMEDIATELY
- heavy or persistent bleeding, major cuts
- balance disorders or circulatory collapse
- strong pain
- shortness of breath
- broken bones
- heatstroke
- persistent, profuse vomiting and severe diarrhea
- visible blood in the urine
- complications at birth
- burns
- poisoning
- severe lameness
