How puppy owners can prepare for the worst
While we always hope for the best case scenarios with our pets, it is also important to be prepared for the worst. Before you bring a new puppy home, you should prepare your home with all the necessary pet supplies to ensure it will be safe and comfortable. You should also learn the basics of first aid for dogs so you know what to do with your puppy in case something goes wrong.
New pet owners should know what the most common emergencies in dogs are and be prepared for things as minor as ticks on dogs to those as major as natural disasters. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, it is a good idea to keep a pet-specific first aid kit on hand for emergencies. This might include a dog first aid book, several day supply of canned food, food and water dishes, bottled water, liquid dish soap, as well as any medications your dog may be on. A first aid kit should also include tweezers, scissors, bandage material, a general disinfectant and triple antibiotic ointment for minor injuries. Whenever you are administering first aid, it is important to have a muzzle handy to put on your dog. This can make the dog easier to handle, despite its normal temperament. You should also keep photocopies of veterinary records and an extra collar and leash in your emergency kit.
In any emergency situation, you should try to keep the dog as quiet and calm as possible, according to VCA Animal Hospitals. It is important to seek help from your veterinarian as soon as possible after an emergency has occurred.
