| Just like humans, there may be a time when your pet requires first aid - particularly when in foreign and somewhat volatile surroundings like forests or camping grounds. It is important that you carry with you an appropriate first aid kit, generally a basic first aid kit is adequate with a few modifications for animals. Take note of the following suggestions regarding animal first aid: |  |
* Antiseptic cream to rid an injured area of bacteria
* Bandages (varying sizes) and adhesive tape
* Blanket to keep your pet warm in an emergency
* Cotton Wool
* Salt and bicarbonate soda (mixed with water) to induce vomiting if poisoning has occurred
* Scissors for cutting bandages to size and getting fur away from a wound
* Tea Tree Oil is useful for use on insect stings and ticks
* Tweezers are useful for extracting prickles or even ticks from your pet
* Vinegar to soothe stings from a variety of creatures including jellyfish
** Please note this is just a guide and in no way a substantiative list
There are a number of threats to your pets in forest areas/camping grounds that you may not usually encounter. The following information details some examples of pests your pet may come into contact with and how to handle a situation if it arises.
Ticks are a common and dangerous problem in the bush and forest areas. A tick is a small insect that feeds off blood to survive, they particularly target animals. Ticks bite into the skin, burying their face inside (their body remains outside). These pesky little things can be fatal for dogs if left unnoticed. If you have walked your pet or they have played in an area likely to be home to ticks (whether it is your backyard or a forest) you should always check for ticks.
Don't bother trying to look for ticks, they may escape the naked eye. Instead you should feel for ticks by running your hands over your pet's head, back, legs, neck and ears - watching out for small lumps. If your pet does have a tick you should extract is as soon as possible. Use tweezers to grab the tick, aiming as close to it's head as you can, pull gently to dislodge it. Be extra careful to not leave the head behind. Signs that your pet may be affected by a tick include weakness in the hind legs and vomiting or regurgitation.
Snakes are another danger to our pets in Australia, if left untreated a snake bite can be fatal. An animal will not be able to tell you they've been bitten so it is your responsibility to be observant and watch for any changes in behaviour eg. respiratory distress, vomiting, rapid pulse and/or weakness. If you notice any of these changes you should check your dog for puncture marks. You should note that snakes commonly bite the area around the face and neck.
If you believe your pet has been bitten by a snake you should immediately restrict all activity (consider a pressure bandage) keep the dog warm with a blanket and seek urgent veterinary assistance. At all times remain calm and remember that, particularly if the dog is in pain, they may be very distressed so approach very slowly and gently.
One of the most common problems your pet may face on holiday is consuming foods which their system cannot handle or process. Dogs in particular suffer from pancreatic problems if they consume too much fatty food, so monitor what they are getting slipped below the dinner table. Be aware of what your animal is being fed from the BBQ - barbecued onions are bad for dogs and skewers can accidentally be swallowed causing damage to the intestines.
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