Every dog owner should know how to save their dog’s life in emergencies when a Veterinarian is not possible. Having a safety kit with items from this slideshow that you can purchase on Amazon or your local pet store is also important. This list is meant as a quick guide, and we’ll get into more details for each item in another post, so be sure to follow to get those updates. Let the community know in the comments if there are any other useful tips that should be noted as well.
10. Checking for a Pulse
It’s important to understand your dog’s average heart rate, so if something does happen, you can tell if the heart rate you’re checking is normal or alarming. A rule of thumb for a dog’s heart rate is: Puppies are 120 to 160 bpm; Small dogs are 100 to 140 bpm; Medium to large dogs are 60 to 100 bpm. The age of a dog can fluctuate these numbers by 10 bpm.
To find your dog’s pulse easily, follow these steps:
- Locate the Pulse Point: The best place to find your dog’s pulse is in the upper third of their thigh. Gently place your hand over the top of the thigh (see image).
- Feel for the Pulse: Using your fingers, gently press just underneath the leg until you feel the pulsing artery. Avoid using your thumb, as it has a strong pulse of its own and can interfere with your measurement.
- Measure the Pulse: Once you find the pulse, count the number of beats for 15 seconds.
- Calculate Beats Per Minute: Multiply the number of beats you counted by 4 to determine the number of beats per minute (BPM).
Add to Kit: Sports stopwatch timer for $8 (yes you have a timer on your phone, but the emergency kit might be really useful for camping or if your battery is dead).
9. Muzzle Your Pet
Muzzling a dog, even if it’s your own pet, is really important when it is frightened and in pain because it may bite as an instinct. Human safety is always the priority; however, you should never muzzle a dog that is overheated, struggling to breathe, or seems like it will vomit. A mesh muzzle can be added and removed quickly.
Add to Kit: “Mesh Muzzle” to your dog safety bag for $15.
8. Injured Leg
Leg injuries can be common, whether it’s a sprain, strain, or fracture. If your dog is limping or unable to put weight on a leg, gently examine the affected area for swelling or odd angles. Avoid manipulating the leg too much as it could worsen the injury. To immobilize the injured leg, you could use a splint. Additionally, try to keep your dog calm and still while you transport them to the vet.
Add to Kit: Amazon has universal dog splints starting at $10.
7. Choking on Objects
Dogs are very curious, and sometimes this curiosity leads them to swallow things they shouldn’t. If your dog chokes on an object, it’s important that you act fast. First, try to remove the object manually if it’s visible and easily reachable. Be cautious while doing this as your pet might bite out of fear or discomfort. If you’re unable to remove the object or if your dog is still struggling to breathe, perform the Heimlich maneuver. Place your hands just below the ribcage and give a quick, upward thrust. This might help dislodge the object. Immediately after, take your dog to the vet for a thorough check.
6. Bleeding
If your dog is bleeding, it’s important to control the blood flow promptly. Similar to a human wound, apply direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or towel. If the bleeding is severe, you might need to use a tourniquet, but only as a last resort to prevent the loss of a limb. Once the bleeding has slowed or stopped, bandage the area and take your dog to the vet immediately for further assessment and treatment. Avoid using human pain medications unless instructed by your vet, as they can be harmful to dogs.
Add to Kit: Bandages, tourniquet, styptic powder packets
5. Convulsions and Seizures
Seeing your dog have a seizure can be a terrifying experience. During a seizure, ensure your dog is in a safe place away from any objects that might harm them. Do not attempt to restrain them. Time the seizure, and if it lasts more than a few minutes, seek emergency veterinary care. After the seizure, let your dog rest in a quiet, dark room. Contact your veterinarian to report the seizure and schedule a check-up to identify the underlying cause.
Add to Kit: Same sport stopwatch timer as mentioned above.
4. Burns
Burns can be incredibly painful to dogs and require immediate action. Cool the burned area by gently pouring cold water over it for several minutes. You can also use a cold compress or ice pack, but avoid placing ice directly on the burn. Do not use creams or ointments unless prescribed by your vet. Cover the burn with a clean, sterile cloth and transport your dog to the vet for comprehensive care.
Add to Kit: Antiseptic / wound spray, instant cold pack
3. Poisoning
Accidental poisoning is a common emergency for dogs. If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, try to find out what it was and read the label for any immediate action instructions. Do not induce vomiting unless advised by your veterinarian, as some substances can cause more damage coming back up. Bring the packaging of the ingested poison to the vet to help them administer the correct treatment. Quick veterinary intervention is crucial for a good outcome.
Add to Kit: Activated charcoal gel (check with Vet first, emergency use only)
2. Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a serious risk for dogs, especially during the hot summer months. Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, and lethargy. Move your dog to a cool area immediately and offer small amounts of water. Use wet towels to cool down your dog, but avoid using ice-cold water as it can cause shock. Focus on cooling the head, neck, and chest. Rush your dog to the vet as heatstroke can quickly become fatal without proper treatment.
Add to Kit: Outdoor cooling towel
1. Artificial Breathing / CPR
If your dog stops breathing, artificial breathing might be necessary while you get to the vet. Lay your dog on their right side and extend the head to open the airway. Close the mouth and breathe into the nose until the chest rises. Continue at a rate of one breath per 4-5 seconds. Learning this technique from a certified first-aid course is a good idea to ensure you’re prepared for such an emergency.
If CPR is required, for smaller dogs, use one hand to compress the chest about one-third to one-half its width. For larger dogs, use both hands. Compress the chest 30 times, followed by 2 rescue breaths. Repeat the cycle and check for breathing or a heartbeat every few minutes. Continue until veterinary help is available.