What to do if my dog is injured or ill?

One moment the beloved four-legged friend was still lively and cheerful, then suddenly it happened: an accident or a sudden illness. In such moments, level-headed action is called for. But what can you do to give your dog first aid until the vet takes over?

First aid for insect stings

Insect stings are very painful for dogs and are often only noticed by the owner when the dog yelps and frantically licks the affected spot. It becomes especially critical when the sting occurs in the mouth cavity or the throat area (e.g. when snapping at an insect). As the mucous membranes swell, there is a risk of breathing difficulties and, in the worst case, suffocation.

Here's how you can help:

• Look for the sting site (usually hot and swollen).
• Cooling is the be-all and end-all: Place a cool pack, ice cubes wrapped in a cloth or a wet, cold cloth on the swelling or around the neck.
• Tried-and-tested remedies: Many dog owners have had good experiences with giving 3 globules of Apis D6 and 1–2 ampoules of Frubiase Calcium forte – both remedies are regarded as supportive in the case of allergic reactions and swelling.
• Important: With stings in the throat area, drive to the vet immediately!

What to do with a bone fracture?

Open fractures, where the bone is visible, are absolute emergencies. There is a great risk of an infection, which can lead to a purulent bone inflammation.

As a first-aider, your task here is limited to protecting the wound: cover the fracture with a clean cloth (e.g. a cotton T-shirt) or a loose bandage. No „beauty prize“ needs to be won – all that matters is that the bone is protected from dirt.
Caution: Never clean the wound yourself and do not try to set the bone. Drive to the clinic without delay.

Heavy bleeding at the ear

Injuries to the ear often bleed heavily and rarely stop on their own, since the dog instinctively shakes its head and thereby keeps reopening the wound (and spreading the blood around). Considerable blood loss can be the result.

This is how you apply an ear bandage:

1. Carefully fold both ears (including the healthy one) up onto the head.
2. Pad the area under, between and over the ears well with cotton wool or soft fabric.
3. Now wrap a head bandage with bandage wadding and an elastic bandage that fixes both ears in place. Make sure it sits firmly enough not to slip, but does not constrict the windpipe.
4. After that, head to the vet by the quickest route for wound care.

Suspected internal injuries

With any external impact – be it a car accident, a fall (e.g. down stairs) or a heavy collision – internal bleeding must always be considered as well. These are insidious, since you cannot see them from the outside, yet they are life-threatening.

Warning signs of internal injuries and shock:

• Pale to white oral mucous membrane (test the capillary refill time!)
• Racing pulse and heart
• Balance disorders or staggering
• Conspicuous weakness
• Thickening / bloating of the abdomen
• Breathing difficulties
• Unconsciousness

With these signs, every minute counts: seek out an animal clinic or a well-equipped vet without delay who can X-ray, stabilise and, if necessary, operate on the dog.

Note: This article serves as initial information and does not replace a visit to the vet. Dosage recommendations are based on experience.