Library
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Bleeding is concerning if a lot of blood is lost. To minimize external blood loss and prevent shock, you can provide first aid for bleeding dogs until you arrive at your veterinary hospital.
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Insect stings or bites can cause mild signs of swelling, pain, and itching or can be more severe causing hives, anaphylactic reactions, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures. In more severe cases emergency veterinary attention is required to stabilize the dog, screen for organ dysfunction, and provide supportive care.
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Dogs limp when they have a hurt leg. Although most limps need veterinary attention, there are a few first-aid measures you can perform at home if your dog begins to hobble. If your dog is in severe pain, take them to your veterinary hospital or emergency hospital immediately.
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A dog’s tail is an extension of its spine, so it is an important part of its anatomy. Tail injuries are common and can sometimes be managed with home first aid, but some cases require veterinary care. This article outlines some common canine tail injuries and how they should be treated.
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A gastrostomy (G-) tube is a small rubber or silicone tube that passes directly into the stomach through the dog’s skin and abdominal wall. It allows you to deliver food, water, and medications directly into the stomach. This article outlines how to use and maintain a G-tube for your dog.
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Certain medical conditions require drugs that are available only in an injectable format. In many cases, dog owners can administer these medications at home. Most dogs do not mind routine injections that are given in the subcutaneous tissue. This handout provides step-by-step instructions for giving an injection. Dispose of used needles and syringes properly.
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Giving pills to dogs can be a challenge, even for the most experienced veterinarian! The easiest way to give your dog a pill is to hide the pill in food. Some dogs will always find the pill and spit it out, so you may need to administer it directly into your dog's mouth. This handout provides a step-by-step guide to doing this at home.
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While a favorite healthy snack for people, grapes, raisins, and currants can cause kidney failure in dogs. Fortunately, dogs who receive prompt decontamination and treatment prior to symptoms developing are more likely to have a good prognosis following exposure.
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Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal disease. Adult heartworms may live for 5 to 7 years and produce millions of offspring called microfilaria. You can prevent your dog from getting heartworms by using a heartworm preventive.
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Heartworm treatment involves several components to combat potential bacterial infection, kill heartworm larvae (microfilaria), kill adult heartworms, and then test to confirm successful treatment. Complete rest for a dog undergoing treatment is essential.