In an emergency, the first 15 minutes are critical. Here is how to be prepared.
Build your basic kit:Antiseptic
Keep Betadine or Chlorhexidine solution available for cleaning wounds.
Bandaging
Stock sterile gauze pads, cotton rolls, and micropore tape.
Tools
Keep a digital thermometer, blunt-ended scissors, and a clean syringe for flushing wounds. Rectal temperature is most accurate for dogs.
Saline Solution
Use saline solution to wash debris from eyes or wounds.
3 Life-Saving Moves
Use an emergency muzzle when a dog is in intense pain, apply firm direct pressure for bleeding, and carefully check the mouth if your dog is gasping. Only remove an object if you can do so without being bitten.
What Cannot Wait Until Morning
Bloat, seizures lasting more than 2-3 minutes, poisoning from chocolate, grapes, onions, or human medication, and difficulty breathing with open-mouthed gasping or a blue-tinged tongue need urgent veterinary help.