Just as people do in the course of a day, dogs can injure themselves. Sometimes this results from a tumble when trying to jump out of a vehicle or it can be more serious, such as being hit by a car. Whatever has happened, the pressing need will be to evaluate the damage and then decide how to get healing under way.
-
First Aid
-
Canine first aid is very similar to first aid for people. Determine the extent of injury and what should be done for the animal. Begin with the ABCs: airway, breathing and circulation. Assess if the dog's airways are clear. If it has trouble breathing it will need medical attention immediately. The quality of the dog's respiration is also a clue to how it is doing. Slow, shallow breaths are a sign of a critical animal that needs veterinary care quickly. Panting or normal breathing means you need more information about what is going on.
Circulation refers to the cardiovascular system. Check the animal for a pulse and for bleeding. This should be done carefully, as injured animals can bite out of pain or fear, if necessary cover the animals mouth to prevent being bitten. If there are any open bleeding wounds, apply pressure to stop the bleeding. Wounds that bleed heavily or go through all the layers of skin will need medical attention to properly clean and close. Try to keep the wound covered and apply moderate pressure until you can get the dog to a vet.
Check the animal for any broken bones. An animal with a spinal injury will usually not want to move and should not be moved. If the animal has a nonspinal fracture, muzzle it using a piece of cloth or sock if necessary. Place it on a board or other flat surface for transport again. Broken limbs are best left alone. They can be painful and must be set based on an X-ray, so the best thing is to take them to a vet immediately.
For animals with no major wounds or broken bones, just scrapes and bruises, clean the area with a mild soap. If necessary, shave the fur surrounding the wound to get a better look at the extent of the injury. A bandage can be applied to keep the area clean as it heals. Bandage material can be purchased at most drug stores. The technique is similar to that with humans: Apply a nonstick pad over the open area, wrap with gauze, then secure with tape.
Your dog will most likely be sore for a few days to weeks following an injury. When the original injury is not too serious, simple rest at home with restricted activity will be enough to get him back on his feet. For more serious injury, your vet may prescribe pain medication and rest to make him comfortable while he heals. If your dog doesn't seem to be getting back to his old self, take him for an evaluation by the vet to ensure there isn't something more serious going on.
-