First aid for dogs: Checklist for emergencies

An emergency rarely comes announced. Knowing the most important immediate measures can make a big difference in the first few minutes — but it never replaces a visit to the vet. This checklist serves as an initial guide.

Stay calm and protect yourself

An injured or frightened dog can react unexpectedly, even the friendliest one. Approach slowly, speak calmly and avoid sudden movements. If necessary, a loosely fitted muzzle or a scarf can protect you and the dog from unintended bite reactions.

Roughly assessing vital signs

• Breathing: Calm and regular, or fast/shallow/intermittent?
• Consciousness: Does the dog respond to being spoken to and touched?
• Gum colour: Normal pink, very pale or bluish?

Any clear deviation is a reason to contact a veterinary practice immediately.

Treating wounds

1. Carefully remove visible dirt; do not rinse the wound if foreign objects are lodged in it.
2. Apply gentle pressure with a clean compress to stop any bleeding.
3. Loosely cover the wound and have the dog treated by a veterinarian promptly.

Recognising heatstroke

Heavy panting, staggering gait, dark red gums and exhaustion on hot days are warning signs. Immediately move the dog into the shade, moisten the paws and belly with cool (not ice-cold) water, and contact a veterinarian right away — heatstroke is always an emergency.

Suspected poisoning

Secure remains of the suspected toxin or its packaging if possible — this makes treatment at the veterinary practice much easier. Do not induce vomiting without veterinary instruction, as this can cause more harm than good with certain substances.

Swallowing / choking

If a foreign object is visible in the mouth and the dog is alert, it can be carefully removed if easily accessible. In case of breathing difficulty or if the object cannot be safely grasped: go immediately to the nearest veterinary practice or emergency clinic.

Transporting an injured dog

Small dogs can be transported in a blanket like a stretcher; larger dogs are best kept as still as possible on a stable surface. Avoid unnecessary movement in the case of spinal injuries.

The essentials for an emergency kit

• Compresses, bandaging material, paw bandage
• Disposable gloves
• Phone number of the veterinary practice and a nearby emergency clinic
• Current vaccination record

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All dogs cared for at Pfoten-Pfad.ch benefit from our training in first aid for dogs — every minute counts in an emergency. Further details on procedures in emergencies can be found in our GTC.