National Train Your Dog Month Training Tip #12: Better Safe than Sorry. As a pet owner it's extremely important to be prepared for any kind of situation; especially medical emergencies. Keep a first aid kit on hand at home and in your car (if you travel with your pet); the Humane Society has compiled a great list of supplies to include in your kit. Visit your vet for annual check ups, and make sure to keep a list of their phone number as well as any 24 hour veterinary hospitals in your area.
Also, know what symptoms to look for. You know your pup best, so if he's acting strange keep an eye out for these symptoms:
- Pale gums
- Rapid breathing
- Weak or rapid pulse
- Change in body temperature
- Difficulty standing
- Apparent paralysis
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Excessive bleeding
Every dog owner should know how to perform CPR; as we said, better safe than sorry.
