Like humans, puppies can go into shock if they loose a large amount of blood, are seriously injured or suffer from heat stroke or hypothermia. Never medicate a puppy that is in shock. Symptoms may include shaking, trembling, whining, unconsciousness, white gums, respiratory problems or being cold to the touch. Immediate professional care is essential.
Poisoning
You puppy can be poisoned by ingesting toxic substances such as leaves of certain plants, snake bite, human medications, antifreeze, chocolate, products containing lye, cleaning products, excessive amounts of onions and garlic, detergents, insecticides, rodent poisons, raw bread dough, paintball pellets and bleach.
Symptoms of poisoning include, but are not limited to, depression, excessive vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, sudden blindness, excessive salivating, stumbling, muscular weakness, respiratory problems, partial paralysis, unconsciousness, anemia, and dehydration.
If you suspect your puppy make be suffering from a mild case of poisoning, call the ASPCA’s Poison Control Hotline for Animals at 1-888-426-4435. The hotline is always open and manned by certified veterinarians. For extreme cases of poisoning, get emergency medical help immediately.
Punctures
If your puppy suffers a puncture wound of the abdomen or thorax, he needs immediate veterinary care.
Never remove an object that is protruding from your puppy. Staunch the bleeding by packing thick gauze pads around the object, trying not to move it. If the injury is causing air to escape from your puppy’s body, coat a gauze pad with Vaseline or Petroleum Jelly and place it over the wound to seal it. Transport your puppy to the closest animal hospital or veterinary clinic immediately.
Snake Bite
If you suspect or know that your puppy has been bitten by a snake, administer ½ mg. of Benedryl per pound of weight and seek immediate veterinary care.