First Aid Essentials for Your Dog

© Mdk572

Sooner of later most dogs have accidents and suffer cuts, bruises, or strains just like us humans! To ensure you are at the ready should an accident happen, it's a good idea to have a doggie 'first aid kit' that you can keep in the bathroom and take with you if you are going away or on a long hike. Here are some suggested essentials you should keep in your first aid kit:

• Saline (in pods) to wash away dirt and debris from your pet's eyes and other areas. 
• Alcohol free cleansing wipes to clean wounds prior to applying dressings. 
• Gauze swabs to use for cleaning up fluid or saline. 
• Dressings of different sizes to cover any injury. 
• Bandages for use around a limb if a sprain is suspected or to cover dressings for extra protection. 
• Microporous tape for holding dressings or bandages in place. 
• Blanket (either regular or a special foil blanket) to retain body warmth and help combat shock. 
• Latex gloves to keep yourself clean and avoid cross contamination. 
• Plastic pouches to cover foot injuries and help keep them clean, fasten with microporous tape 
• A pair of tweezers for removing foreign bodies such as thorns, pieces of glass, ticks etc.
• A pair of scissors 

With this little lot, you should be ready for most eventualities while you are out and about with your hound!

The photograph used in this blog is licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence

Looking After your Dog in the Wintertime

By Isaac MaCalister

Winter can be a fun time for dogs. Their owners know how much they love to play in fresh snow, for example, but protecting them during the colder months can be a challenge. So here are a few tips and tricks to help keep your furry friends healthy and looking their best.

Why Your Dog Needs Exercise

By Tracey Patterson

© Copyright John Goldsmith

Every dog breed requires different amounts of daily activity and exercise. Experts say that some daily activity and exercise is essential to keeping your dogs physical and emotional health at an optimum level. Lack of dog exercise will lead to obesity, poor muscle tone, heart problems, bone and joint disorders and will often result in emotional problems, boredom barking, destructive behavior, and anxiety.