Basics of Dog Safety

My family's attitude about dog safety for me is no different than it would be for any other family member.

They do whatever they can to ensure my safety and health wherever I am or whatever I am doing. They also try to always make sure I am fully under control and am never a threat to anyone else.

Use Dog-Sense

You do your best to not put him in a situation where he is vulnerable or dangerous. You don't let him run off-leash outside unless you have a secure, fenced area to keep him in.

You are careful to not give him access to foods that might be toxic to dogs. Likewise, you also help him to avoid things in the environment that will hurt him if he ingests them.

What if Your Dog Needs Help?

So, when your dog has a minor scrape or cut, it's important to have a few items on hand in the home so you can either completely care for the problem or use as a temporary measure until you can get him to the Vet.

Have these things on hand and use your dog-sense to use as needed for minor accidents: anti-bacterial soap, anti-septic wipes, large gauze pads (cut to size needed), gauze roll bandage, hydrogen peroxide, an antibiotic ointment, eye wash, gel packs for cold/hot compresses, splints and muzzle (your dog must be willing to allow basic first aid).

You should post, and have easy access to your Vet's telephone number and also their number for emergencies.

Post the ASPCA number for poison-related emergency, 888-426-4435. This is available 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Note that you may be charged a consultation fee for this service.

The American Red Cross is a great source for dog safety information. You may even take your preparedness to a higher level by learning how to administer CPR to your furry family member.

You should also have a basic understanding of disaster planning as it relates to dog safety. An important factor here is not just how to keep your dog generally safe, but how to be prepared in case you are suddenly unable to care for your dog.

Particularly if you live in an area prone to natural disasters, this dog encourages you to be prepared.

Dog Bite!

Wash the wound with anti-bacterial soap, if you have it, and clean with sterile gauze or anti-bacterial wipes. Add a bit of pressure to the wound and continue to clean it up until the bleeding is stopped. Then, apply an anti-biotic ointment. If it is a surface wound, there is no need to cover it. If deeper, bandage with gauze.

Seek medical treatment right away. Don't hesitate to use 911 if a human has been bitten or contact your Vet if it is your dog.

If possible, know how to locate the biter so that medical authorities can find out whether it has been vaccinated, if necessary.

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