From simple conditions such as allergies and paw injuries to advanced measures like CPR, heatstroke and the Heimlich Maneuver, this articles tells you how to administer first aid to your puppy. Also included is how to take your puppy's pulse and other valuable information.
The first thing you need to know about your puppy and injuries is that when she is hurt, frightened or in pain, she might bite – and yes, she will bite you. Keep a muzzle on hand that can be easily slipped on if your puppy has an accident. Puppy’s teeth are sharp and can do a lot of damage if you’re handling a snarling, biting ball of fur.
Allergies
Like humans, puppies can have allergic reactions and they can range from mild to severe. Some puppies have extreme reaction to bee stings, which can cause swelling. Determine your puppy’s body weight and give ½ mg. of Benedryl for each pound of weight to slow the reaction, and then get to your vets or an animal hospital immediately.
Allergic symptoms in puppies are much the same as they are in humans. Swollen face, watery eyes, itching, respiratory problems and excessive sneezing all tell you that your puppy is having a reaction. Don’t ignore the warning signs. Seek veterinarian assistance immediately.
Fractures and Broken Bones
If you believe that your puppy has fractured a leg, or if you know it is definitely broken, it needs immediate attention. Before taking your puppy to the animal hospital or vet’s, stabilize the injury. Wrap it is a thick bandage that’s well padded to prevent further damage. Make sure the bandage extends well above and below the injured area. If the leg is swelling rapidly and the bandage becomes too tight, loosen it a little. Once the bandage is properly adjusted, take your puppy to an animal hospital or to your vet immediately. Fractures and broken bones that are not properly cared for can leave permanent damage that will affect your puppy’s quality of life as she grows older.
Paw Injuries
Your puppy’s paw cannot be repaired with stitches or clamps. If she injures her paw, try bandaging it. This may not work, as canines of any age do not like their paws covered. Puppy may chew off the bandage despite your efforts to keep it on. If this is the case, use a liquid skin product to seal the injury, or even Super Glue®.
Hold the two edges of the injury together, being as gentle as possible, then apply the liquid skin or glue to hold the wound together. These products will wear off as the injury heals and your puppy becomes more active. If you cannot get the wound to hold together, take your puppy to the vet. Caution: Be very careful when applying Super Glue®, as it will bond anything and is very hard to remove.