Safely assesing an injured dog

We either don't think about it or we have thought about it and don't know where to get the information in regards to saving our dog in case of an emergency. Seconds matter. For the next few weeks I will be outlining, through various books that I've read, basic things to prevent a bad situation from getting worse. This information is by no means a substitution for proper vet emergency care, however, there are things that can be done in the meantime.

Assessing an injured dog:

Check breathing by watching the dogs chest rise and fall 20-30 breaths per minute is normal. This often increases after an accident. Short intakes of air followed by forced breathing may mean that the dog has or may have an injured diaphragm.

Clear the airway especially if the dog is unconscious. Open it['s mouth to remove any debris and gently pull the tongue forward as this may obstruct breathing.

Check circulation by feeling the pulse on the inside of the hind leg. The heartbeat is felt by pressing a hand firmly on the chest behind the elbow. Large dogs have a heart rate between 50 - 90 beats per second while small dogs have rates of up to 150 beats.