Before we begin, while it's not strictly a part of our first aid article (at least we hope you won't need it) something to keep in mind all year, and this time of the year especially, is to make sure your canine does not eat any chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is closely related to caffeine. While not present in large enough amounts to do harm to humans, canines can easily overdose. There are many articles on the subject which you can readily find using a search engine of your choosing.
Now for our feature article...
First Aid Kit for Pets
If you have pets at home, it is a very good idea to have a first aid kit specifically for pets. Although first aid is a valuable tool, nothing can replace getting your pet to a veterinarian in the event of an emergency or prolonged symptoms.
Benadryl
The drug name for Benadryl is Diphenhydramine HCl and it is a very effective antihistamine available over the counter. Benadryl is available in 25 mg tablets. The dosage to use is 1 mg per pound of body weight so for a ten pound dog, a half tablet is appropriate. This can be given every four to six hours. Benadryl can be used for a vaccine reaction, an allergic reaction to a bee sting, and mild itchiness. It can even be used to help cause drowsiness to prevent motion sickness if given 45 minutes before a car ride.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Not only is hydrogen peroxide an effective disinfectant, but it can also be used to induce vomiting. For example, if your pet has eaten mouse or rat bait, hydrogen peroxide can be given orally at one tablespoon per ten pounds of body weight. This will help rid the body of the toxins before they are digested if it is given with 45 minutes of ingestion of the toxic substance. Some substances can cause harm to the esophagus so if you are not sure whether the animal can vomit the substance, check with a veterinarian first.
Rubbing Alcohol
Alcohol is a good disinfectant. It can also help to cool an animal if they are suffering from heat stroke. Apply alcohol to the pads and ears of the animal. These areas have a high number of small blood vessels in the skin to help with temperature regulation. By putting alcohol on the area, it will have a cooling effect.
Dishwashing Soap
Soap is a very simple way to provide a cleanser to a wound. A little bit of dishwashing soap goes a long way, so do not use too much. Over the counter flea medications can be very toxic to animals. If your animal has a seizure-like episode after applying a new medication, wash thoroughly with dishwashing soap. There is an old saying with regards to wounds: "the solution to pollution is dilution." This means that if you are trying to clean a wound before getting medical attention, washing the area as thoroughly as possible will help remove debris that may cause infection.
Tweezers
Animals are curious by nature and will sometimes get too close to something dangerous such as a bee sting. Tweezers can remove the bee's stinger, a splinter, a tick, or other foreign objects. If you do remove an object from your pet, be sure to save it so you can show the veterinarian and help with the treatment of your animal.
Bandaging
A variety of bandaging materials is useful to have on hand. If an animal suffers from a wound where blood is being lost, apply pressure using gauze sponges and a bandage. This will help control the bleeding until you can get to a veterinarian. Never leave a bandage on for more than an hour as you can cause damage to the area from lack of blood flow.
Karo Syrup
If your animal has suffered from heart stroke or exhaustion, rubbing karo syrup on their gums will help provide immediate energy. Do not put too much in the animal's mouth as you do not want to cause choking.
Dr. Abby Deuel, Veterinarian
Deuel Veterinary Services, P.C.
2047 N Broadway Ave
Salem, IL 62881
Phone: 618-548-6755
Fax : 618-548-6855
deuelveterinaryservices.com
Text and photos are Copyright © 2012–2013 C. Sue Furman, Ph.D. and Holistic Touch Therapy — c.suefurman@gmail.com
This article originally appeared in the October 2012 edition of the Holistic Touch Therapy Newsletter.