Knowing a few simple techniques buys precious time on the way to the vet.
Press a clean cloth firmly on a bleeding wound and keep pressing — add more layers instead of lifting to peek. Minor scrapes can be rinsed with lukewarm water and monitored for swelling or infection.
Heavy panting, bright red gums, wobbling and vomiting in warm weather is an emergency. Move the dog to shade, cool with lukewarm — not ice-cold — water over the body, offer small sips, and go to the vet even if the dog seems to recover.
Keep a first-aid kit with bandage material, a tick remover, saline and your vet's number, and know your nearest emergency clinic. An injured, frightened dog may bite — a soft muzzle protects you both.
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