First Aid For Shock In Dogs

First aid for shock could make the difference in whether your Golden Retriever dog lives or dies. Whenever a dog is injured (especially from a car accident) or is seriously ill, he'll probably go into shock.

If not treated quickly, a dog will die from shock even if the illness or injuries themselves are not fatal.

What Is Shock?

Shock is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there is a lack of adequate blood flow to support the body's needs.

It can be caused by any of the following:

• Being hit by a car, the most common cause of traumatic shock in a dog
• Dehydration from prolonged vomiting and/or diarrhea
• Twisted stomach (bloat)

• Sudden loss of blood
• Animal bites
• Heatstroke
• Poisoning
• Severe infections

First Aid For Shock -- Know the Symptoms

Before you can apply first aid for shock, you need to know what to look for. In many cases, canine shock victims may appear asleep, or may be semi-conscious.

Symptoms vary according to the severity of the condition.

Here are some shock symptoms to look for:

• Pale or blue gums
• Shallow, rapid breathing
• A rapid, faint pulse
• Listlessness
• General weakness
• Shivering
• Drop in body temperature
• Your dog may even be cold to the touch

First Aid For Shock--What Do I Do?

Treating shock takes precedence over other injuries. Your priorities are to control any bleeding, maintain body heat, and support vital functions. Knowing how to treat shock will help you follow these procedures calmly:

• If your dog is not breathing, administer mouth-to-nose resuscitation.
• If there is no heartbeat, administer heart massage.
• If he's unconscious, check to be sure the airway is open; clear secretions from the mouth with your fingers; pull out the tongue to keep the airway clear of secretions.
• Elevate his hindquarters, sending more blood to the brain.
• Stop visible bleeding immediately.
• If your golden retriever dog is conscious, let him assume the most comfortable position (with the least pain). Don't force your dog to lie down--it may make breathing more difficult.
• Carefully support broken bones before moving your dog.
• Unless his condition is the result of heatstroke, cover your dog with a blanket or coat. Do not wrap tightly.
• Transport large dogs on a hard, flat surface (such as a door) or in a hammock stretcher. Carry small dogs in a box, with injured parts protected.
• Muzzle only when absolutely necessary, as it may impair breathing.

As you administer first aid for shock, try to calm your golden retriever dog in a soft voice, and pet him reassuringly.

Because the actions of a dog in shock are unpredictable, use caution in handling him.

Do everything you can in the way of first aid for shock, then let the professionals take it from there.

Intravenous fluids and other medications must be administered as soon as possible, so get your dog to the vet immediately.

Call your vet to let him know you're on your way--then GO! If someone else is available to be your driver, that's even better. Your golden retriever needs your full attention right now, more than ever.

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