First Aid is a topic that is not exclusive to older dogs. However, older dogs with heart problems or who cannot see or are a little unstable on their feet may need first aid quite often. Information is at the following websites:
A natural disaster often results in injuries, and we should be prepared to administer first aid both to ourselves and to our pets when it strikes.
First and foremost, have a "disaster plan" that includes your dog. Always have him wear a collar with complete identification (i.e., his name, your name, address, and telephone, etc.) and be sure any legally-required vaccinations (i.e., rabies) are up to date. If you haven't yet microchipped your dog, plan to do so as soon as possible.
Have an evacuation plan that takes account of your entire human and animal family. Pets can't fend for themselves -- especially in a disaster situation. Plan a way to keep everyone together or to place the members of your family in a suitable "foster" arrangement.
Your dog may become panicky, and, if you know she is prone to be so, have a supply of tranquilizers available. To restrain a panic-stricken dog who is acting aggressively, you will need a muzzle -- or to improvise one (use a long, narrow cloth band to wrap around the dog's snout, crossing and tying over and under the chin, finally tying from under the chin to behind the neck). Give your dog commands authoritatively to "sit" and "stay," and grasp and hold him from behind, with one arm around his neck and under his chin, if necessary to keep him quiet.
If your dog is injured, and you need to apply first aid, get someone to help hold him. An injured animal easily becomes frightened and sometimes aggressive, even toward a familiar companion. Use a muzzle (or an improvised one). To hold the dog in a side-lying position, kneel and place your knees into the dog's back, putting one hand on his flank and the other on his shoulders or forelegs (depending on where the injury is).
If a paw or other area of the body is cut or torn, you will need to clean the wound and to stop the bleeding. Clean with a light salt solution (a heaping tablespoon in a gallon of water), then use antibiotic cream. Cover with gauze and wrap with a stretch bandage to yield just enough pressure to stop the bleeding. Do not over-tighten, as that may stop circulation and cause further problems.
For a broken leg or dislocated joint, apply a splint as best you can until you can get veterinary attention.
(This material adapted from Jane Brody's article in the New York Times, February 23, 1999.)
