Dog First Aid

Just because you never know if life is gonna toss you a bone, or something totally different, you ought to be prepared to help Fido out if he’s ever in need of medical care. While you should get Fido to a vet for serious medical issues and for medical advice, it’s helpful to keep a “Fido” first aid kit somewhere in your home for minor problems or for immediate treatment. If you travel a lot with your pal, it’s also wise to keep a small kit in your car as well. Animal first aid kits can be purchased, or, if you’d rather, using a plastic container with a locking lid, you can create your own Fido First Aid kit.

What to do if…

• My dog’s been skunked! If your dog has had a run-in with a skunk and smells like it, don't panic! While the smell might be terrifying, there are many quick topical home remedies (usually made up of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and citrus-based liquid soap) that can be used to combat the stink. In a pinch, tomato juice can work as well. Hey, it's better than the alternative.

• Wasps and Bee Stings: Curious dogs are prone to run-ins with Mother Nature from time to time, and wasp and bee stings can sometimes occur. Make sure your dog shows none of the following signs of an allergic reaction:

• Difficulty breathing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Swelling
• Fainting

If you suspect an allergic reaction, take your dog to the vet or emergency animal hospital immediately. Otherwise, try to remove the stinger if your dog will allow it, and apply an ice cube or a pasty mixture of meat tenderizer and water to ease the pain.

• Poisoning: Did you know that common foods and plants around our homes and yards can be toxic to dogs, even if they are perfectly suitable for human consumption? Before giving your dog human foods, make sure you are aware of what might be toxic to your pet and be wary. Also check around your yard to make sure your dog is safe from yard hazards as well. If you suspect your dog has ingested a poisonous substance

• Try to identify the poison
• Call the National Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435
• If advised, include vomiting with a teaspoon of ipecac
• Take your dog immediately to the vet or nearest emergency animal hospital

• Beat the Heat: Dogs do not have the same inner thermostats as humans and because they cannot cool themselves through perspiration, can quickly overheat in hot spaces such as a car with closed windows. All dogs need to be protected from overheating with a cool, shaded area when it's hot.

Most dogs won't let us know they are experiencing heatstroke until they show symptoms such as lethargy or heavy breathing and panting. If you suspect a dog is overheating, get them to a cool place with water immediately.