Articles Index/First Aid
Posted 05/19/98

SIMPLE MEDICINE CHEST IMPORTANT ADDITION TO DOG-RELATED SUPPLIES

When people acquire a puppy, they soon assemble a supply of collars and leads, water bowls, bedding, toys, food, and doggy treats. Ofen overlooked, however, are simple first-aid supplies which can go a long way toward alleviating anxiety when fido regurgitates his breakfast or doesn't seem his perky self.

While an excellent working relationship with a competent veterinarian is the best way to ensure the ongoing good health of your dog, here are some basic supplies that dog owners should have in their medicine chests:

• A rectal thermometer. The normal body temperature for an adult dog is between 101 and 102 degrees F (slightly higher for puppies). If you have to call your vet to report symptoms, knowing whether or not your dog has a fever is important information.
• Gauze pads and bandage tape. Once in a while, a wound needs wrapping, either temporarily or until a dog can be delivered to the vet. Hopefully, these supplies will be unnecessary, but they come in handy at the most unexpected times.
• Buffered aspirin, to be given at a dosage recommended by your veterinarian. For dogs with arthritis or muscle aches, as little as half a buffered aspirin a day can work wonders.
• Pepto Bismol. There are specific dog-related products available through catalogues or pet-supply houses, but this common household medicine can be beneficial in calming an upset stomach.
• Tweezers. If you live in tick country, this tool is a must for removing the pesky critters. They may also come in handy for removing splinters.
• Quik Stop or some similar product. Despite what your dog may tell you, cutting a quick while nail trimming is not a tragedy. However, something that immediately stops the blood flow eliminates the mess and makes everyone feel better. (A cookie helps, too.)

ANTIC, March, 1998

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