Your dog is loyal and loving and would give you the world if possible. So, it’s only fitting to return the favor by keeping it safe in and around the home and neighborhood.
Emergency preparedness is essential for a happy and healthy pet, so start planning to prepare for anything today.
These emergency preparedness tips will help.
Be prepared for anything
The best way to react swiftly during a pet-related emergency is to be prepared when and if the time occurs, and there are several ways to do so.
One is to know your dog’s history. If you recently adopted or purchased the dog, ask the previous owner about ailments or issues you should know about.
It’s also vital that you bring your dog to the vet for regular visits so you can get the necessary shots. The vet can inform you of any allergies or health concerns so you can stay alert.
Next, create a dog-focused emergency bag you can take in the car and keep at arm’s reach at home. The bag should contain medicine specific to your dog’s condition and emergency materials.
The bag can include medical items, such as:
- Scissors
- Gauze
- Thermometer
- Antiseptic wipes
- Sterile saline eyewash
However, it should also contain other useful items, like treats, to distract your dog if you need to attend to its wounds. Also, a blanket or muzzle can be used when your pet is frightened so it can stay under control and relax.
You must also learn the local laws regarding dogs and other furry friends. For instance, many counties require that dogs be vaccinated and microchipped so they are healthy and easily located if they get lost.
There are also laws associated with dog bites. In most cases, you’re responsible if your dog bites another person or animal.
Sometimes, you may even be held negligent if your dog attacks. So, use proper training to ensure that your dog doesn’t bite so you can avoid emergencies that may affect others.
Learn quick life-saving tactics
In addition to being prepared, it’s also wise to know how to react if your dog faces an injury or life-threatening emergency.
Your actions will play a big part in how you resolve the situation. Be sure to stay calm and not become frantic, as this could frighten the dog or worsen the situation.
Once you’ve addressed the initial issue, it’s also a good idea to take your dog to the vet for further evaluation.
To take action, you should learn several emergency practices and first aid tips, including how to stop bleeding.
Use the gauze in your pet kit and apply pressure to the wound until the bleeding stops. Then, apply antibiotic cream and bandage it, and if it needs more care, head to the vet.
Your dog could choke on a bone, toys, or other objects. You’ll know that may be the case if the dog starts pawing at its neck or if you notice it struggling to breathe.
You may not realize that you can apply the Heimlich maneuver to small, medium, and large dogs. The key to all sizes is to know where their abdomen is located.
That is where you will want to join your hands and apply thrusting motions until the obstruction is removed.
If your dog frequently chokes, it could be due to a medical issue, such as a collapsing trachea or kennel cough.
That’s another reason to bring your dog to the vet regularly and when experiencing issues.
Keep your dog away from dangerous situations
The best way to protect your dog from health emergencies is to keep them out of dangerous situations.
For starters, whether at home or out at the park, you can avoid plants commonly toxic to dogs, such as angel plants, which can cause throat irritation if your dog chews on them.
Many people like to decorate their homes with sago palm plants, but eating the seeds can cause significant health problems for your pup.
Many dogs feel the urge to run off when they’re not secured in place, but there’s a lot of danger in the world if they’re left unattended.
So, verify that the fence around your home is maintained and secure, and always keep your dog on a leash when you leave the premises so they can’t run into traffic or get into trouble with other dogs or people.
Finally, be careful with your dog during warm and cooler seasons. On hot days, do not leave the dog in the car. Also, when you go for walks, pay attention to the temperature of the sidewalk so it doesn’t burn your dog’s paws.
Final thoughts on emergency preparedness
Take the time to research and prepare for potential pet emergencies. Your immediate action could save your dog’s life. Think about these scenarios now; you won’t need to worry much later.
Miles Oliver is a proud dog lover and an outdoor enthusiast. He often writes on his patio with a hot cup of tea and his 4-year-old border collie mix by his feet. When Miles is not working as a freelance writer, he is most likely mountain biking and roaming the great outdoors with his four-legged companion.