Canine Beagle Health and First Aid

For all people reading this it is probably safe to say that you care for the health and wellbeing of your dog. It is heartbreaking to see your beloved pooch in any kind of pain or discomfort. That’s why it is extremely important that you give your dog the best care possible. This article will provide basic canine first aid procedures if your dog gets sick or injured. This is a simple guide only. There are courses based around canine first aid available to you, the information should be available at your local vet.

Healthy State

First we should look at what a healthy dog looks like. If you have had your dog for a little while, you will know when something is not right with him. Your instincts are probably your best guide to when you think your dog is sick. If in doubt, always take your dog to the vet to get checked out, better safe than sorry. A healthy dog should be active and aware, though still happy to lie down for most of the day. He should be a healthy weight, you should be able to feel his ribs, but not see them. Your dog should also have a consistent appetite.

First Aid Kit

Canine first aid kits are an excellent tool for preserving the health and wellbeing of your dog. They can assist in reducing pain, distress, preventing infection of an injury from spreading, and keeping your dog more comfortable while you are contacting and taking him to the vet. A dog first aid kit should include:

• Muzzle
• Gauze
• Tape
• Cotton Wool
• Disinfectant
• Scissors

Your local vet may have a dog first aid kit available to buy at their practice. Be sure to ask about them next time you are there.

First Aid Procedure

When your dog has been injured or fallen ill, and needs emergency attention, these first aid steps could help preserve your dog’s health and make the vets job easier.

• Call a vet at the first available opportunity to let them know of your dogs condition, they can tell you what to do over the phone. While waiting, check your dog’s airway, circulation and breathing.
• Make sure your surroundings are safe for you and your dog, make sure you are safe from any hazards that originally caused the injury.
• Remain calm, if you dog is alert, he will sense your distress.
• Reassure your dog, as he will be distressed also, speak softly, calmly, do not growl. This will help you when the dog needs to be restrained.
• Check for bleeding and find ways to slow it, eg bandage.
• Be very careful when moving your dog, if there is another person available, slide a blanket under your dog and use it like a stretcher.