Health and first aid- what to put in your first aid (peace of mind) kit
in a container, including…
Tweezers,
(round ended) scissors,
sticky tape,
antiseptic cream or the like,
lint free sterile pads,
bicarbonate of soda (for bee stings),
vinegar (for wasp stings),
hand sanitiser.
your vets number clearly written and obvious
Health and First Aid Tips
Firstly, lastly and above all, don’t panic, follow your common sense.
Contact your vet if you are worried or uncertain, .
Choking:
Puppies will put everything they can in their mouths, so puppy proofing the house is very important. A chocking pup will wretch and paw at their mouth, so look for signs of an obstruction. Try to flick whatever it is forward and out of their mouths. This is frightening and the dog will likely be quite distressed. Watch your fingers- afterwards they’ll probably (involuntarily) snap their mouths shut.
Cortisol
is the hormone that dogs release if they are stressed. It can take several weeks after a shock for this hormone to dissipate, so if your dog has taken strange or had a nasty shock, you may need to be extra positive and reassuring for a little longer than you would expect.
Cut paws
are quite a common problem. Rest is required. It’s important to frequently change the bandaging so the wound is clean and dry. Iodine sprays can help keep the cut clean without moisture, but it may be a struggle to aim. Don’t use lint or cotton wool balls on the cut as they leave behind little bits of fluff which are difficult to remove. Spurting bright red blood will need immediate veterinary attention.
(Labrador) Droopy tail:
A lab who loves to constantly dive in and out of cold water may be susceptible to a sprained tail- which cannot wag 🙁 Usually this clears up itself, but an trip to the vets and an anti-inflammatory maybe needed if it still looks sore after a week.
Heatstroke.
Never leave a dog in the car without water unattended. Ever. Always carry a good supply of water and constantly consider whether the dog needs shade. Prevention is the key, heatstroke can be fatal. A dog suffering from heatstroke will pant at first, then froth at the mouth, then collapse. Wipe their mouths, ring the vets and sponge down the whole dog while you wait.
Oxytocin
is a happy, bonding hormone. Oxytocin levels increase when a dog and their person admire, cuddle and groom each other. Blood tests tell us both owners’ and dogs get a spike in their level. Nursing mothers and babies also bond with this hormone. The increased level of this ‘love’ hormone is said to be good for people and an enormous stress relief. Watch the dog for signs whether they are enjoying the interactions and give the pup space if they need. Their mood will change depending on their hunger, thirst, sleepiness and toileting requirements.
Vomiting:
Dogs sometimes vomit, it doesn’t seem to be the same ghastly experience we humans have- they usually seem to very quickly recover. However, the vet needs to know when the dog is vomiting regularly, is lethargic and uninterested in sustenance.
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