🐾 First Aid for Dogs
Emergencies happen. Here's a comprehensive guide to handle them calmly and quickly before reaching a vet.
🧰 First Aid Kit Essentials
- Digital thermometer (dog-safe)
- Gauze, bandages, adhesive tape
- Antiseptic wipes/spray (e.g., Betadine)
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%) – only to induce vomiting under vet advice
- Scissors, tweezers, gloves
- Clean towel or blanket
- Muzzle (to prevent bites when in pain)
- Saline solution (for cleaning wounds or eyes)
- Syringe (without needle) for oral medication
🚑 Common Emergencies & Care
🐍 Snake Bite or Insect Sting
Immobilize your dog, apply cold compress, and rush to the vet immediately. Don't suck the venom.
🔥 Burns
Cool the area with cool water (not ice), cover with clean gauze. Avoid applying ointments.
🩸 Bleeding Wound
Apply pressure with a clean cloth, elevate limb if safe. Use bandage and visit vet urgently.
🤢 Poisoning
Call vet immediately. DO NOT induce vomiting unless told. Note what was ingested.
🌡️ Heat Stroke
Move to a shaded/cool place, wet body with room temperature water, offer small sips of water. Immediate vet visit needed.
💨 Choking
Open mouth gently, try removing object with tweezers if visible. If not, do not push deeper – rush to vet.
💊 Must-Have Medicines (OTC)
- Betadine – for cleaning wounds
- Neosporin (dog-safe) – for cuts & minor wounds
- Electral powder – for dehydration
- Activated charcoal – for poison ingestion (only if advised)
- Antihistamines (Cetirizine/Avil) – for mild allergies (under guidance)
- Pet-safe antacids (like Sucralfate) – for gastric issues
📞 When to Contact Vet Immediately
- Difficulty breathing or seizures
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness
- Major trauma (hit by car, fall from height)
- Suspected poisoning or ingestion of toxic substances
- Snake bites or scorpion stings
⚠️ First aid is only the first step. Always consult a vet immediately after emergency care.