No one wants to see their furry friend hurt, but minor scrapes and cuts are inevitable. It's important to be able to tell the difference between a serious injury that requires Veterinary attention and something that can be treated at home. Here are a few tips on how to tell if your pup needs to see the doctor.
Check for Bleeding
If the bleeding is constant and won't stop with pressure or is spurting from the wound, this is a sign of an arterial bleed which is life threatening. If the bleeding is minimal or has stopped completely, wait 5 minutes and check again. If it starts up again, seek Veterinary attention immediately.
Look for Swelling
Swelling can sometimes be an indication of internal bleeding or bruising. If you notice that your dog's limbs appear unusually large or bloated, this could be a sign of something serious and you should take them in for an examination right away.
Check for Shock Symptoms
Shock is a serious condition that occurs when your dog's body isn't getting enough oxygen to the tissues. Shock can happen as a result of blood loss, an allergic reaction, or even due to heatstroke. Symptoms of shock include pale gums, weakness, rapid breathing, and dizziness. If your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, seek emergency help immediately.
Monitor Their Pain Level
Dogs have a higher tolerance for pain than we do, so they may not show any signs that they're in discomfort right away. Keep an eye out for excessive licking or chewing at the injury site, whimpering or crying when touched, or unwillingness to put weight on an injured limb. If you notice any of these behaviors, it's best to err on the side of caution and take them in for a checkup just to be sure everything is okay.
It can be difficult to assess how seriously injured your dog may be after an accident, but by checking for these four things you'll get a better idea of whether or not they need emergency care. In general, it's always better to be safe than sorry so if you're ever unsure it's always best to err on the side of caution and bring them in for an examination. With these tips in mind, you can rest assured that you'll know how to handle any situation that comes your way!
You never know when your dog is going to need first aid. That's why it's important to be prepared by having a dog first aid kit on hand. It's also a good idea to have a list of emergency numbers, such as your veterinarian's number and the number for the poison control center. By being prepared, you can rest assured that you'll be able to take care of your furry friend in case of an emergency. So don't wait - buy a dog first aid kit today!
