There's no need to be in a panic about a potential life threatening situation for your pooch, but it's definitely worth it to be prepared ahead of time. Listen carefully to Dr. Becker and keep paper and a pen handy. She makes some great points about circumstances a pet Mom and Dad need to deliberate on with a level head and heart. Then stay tuned for the 7 tips to remember:
1) Your vet's emergency phone number
2) The local emergency clinic number
3) How to get to the emergency clinic
4) Poison Control number (888-426-4435)
5) How to perform basic CPR on your pet
6) How to stop bleeding/apply a basic pressure wrap
7) How to muzzle your pet (to keep an injured pet from biting you) with a homemade muzzle
Keeping a list of everything that is known about your dog, including shot records, allergies and what you are willing to do in a serious situation, are givens. Finances are another consideration.
Think with a clear head about serious but often unavoidable topics like amputation, resuscitation, and – if you cannot imagine your life without your pup – can you manage a doggie that cannot function without 24/7 care? To read more about this important issue, visit Healthy Pets.
Honestly, we do not judge. It’s just something more to reflect on.
