Calming an injured dog

The majority of injured animals will be panicked and/or disoriented. It is important to ensure the safety of all rescue personnel that is attempting to assist an injured animal. Here are some types of restraint that can ensure the safety of both dogs and humans:

• Muzzling: You can create a muzzle out of a leash, belt, sock, rope, or strap. Loop the cord around the dog's muzzle and tighten it to prevent the animal from biting. Animals can breathe through their nostrils unless the nose is injured or obstructed.

• Wrapping: You can wrap the body of an unmanageable pet in a blanket or towel. Be sure to keep the head exposed and do not constrict the trachea.

• Immobilizing: If you are suspicious of spinal injury, lay the animal on a board and secure it on the board with straps or cords. Pay special attention to immobilizing the head and neck.

A sign when a dog is in shock

Clinical signs of systemic shock include rapid breathing and elevated heart rate with pale mucous membranes: gums, lips, or under the eyelids. The feet or ears may feel cold and your dog may vomit and shiver. As shock progresses most pets become quiet and unresponsive. Keep the dog as quiet as possible and try to conserve heat by covering it with blankets, towels, or even newspapers. Follow the A, B, and C's of first aid:

• A. Airway: Do your best to clear the mouth and throat of any obstruction such as vomit, saliva, or foreign bodies such as grass, sticks, or balls. Be careful - your dog may bite you in panic.

• B. Breathing: If the dog is unconscious and does not appear to be breathing, try gently pumping the chest with the palm of your hand. Be careful - injured pets may bite you out of fear.

• C. Cardiac function: Try pressing on the chest with your palm and elevating the lower half of the body to promote blood flow to the brain.

Rescue breathing for a dog

When you encounter an unresponsive dog, the first step is to ensure that there is an open airway.

1. Carefully pull the tongue out of the mouth.

2. Extend the head and neck so that they are in a straight line.

3. Carefully clear the mouth of any debris that may be obstructing breathing.

4. Place your hand over the animal's muzzle while holding the mouth shut and extending the neck.

5. Blowing into the nostrils, give 2-3 breaths and watch for a rise in the chest.

6. If you believe there is an airway obstruction that you cannot see, turn the dog upside down, with the back against your chest.

7. Provide 20 breaths per minute.

8. Press firmly with your fingernail in the space just beneath the nose on the upper lip (nasal philtrum). Maintain the pressure for 10-30 seconds.