When it comes to making sure our dogs are healthy, if we know what to look for, there are remedies we can do at home to deal with Bee Stings, Insect bites, burns, Fever, Heat stroke, Dehydration, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Constipation, Minor wounds and poisoning that will help keep our pets healthy and safe. The remedies listed below may help resolve these issues, but if they do not, always be sure to contact your vet.
Bee Stings and Insect bites
When a dog experiences a bee sting or insect bite, you may notice signs such as swelling, redness, itching, or mild hives. If you see a stinger, gently scrape it out with a credit card or carefully remove it using tweezers. To help soothe the area, apply a cool compress and consider using a paste made from baking soda and water. However, do not administer any medications unless directed by a veterinarian. It’s important to contact a vet right away if your pet shows serious symptoms like facial swelling, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or collapse.
Burns
When dealing with burns on a dog, look for signs such as redness, pain, or blistering of the skin. It’s important to limit further exposure right away. For thermal or electrical burns, apply cool water compresses—changing them frequently—for at least 30 minutes. If the burn is chemical, wash the area with water for at least 15 minutes or brush off any dry chemicals carefully, making sure to protect yourself in the process. Do not apply ointments, butter, or try to remove burned tissue. Avoid using neutralizing agents or immersing your pet in non-flowing water if exposed to dry chemicals. Contact a veterinarian immediately if the burn appears severe, especially if the skin is charred or destroyed.
Fever/heat stroke
Signs of heatstroke in dogs include a body temperature above 39.2°C, excessive panting, restlessness, drooling, unsteadiness, and gums that may appear blue, purple, or bright red. If you suspect heatstroke, immediately move your pet to a cooler area and place cool, wet towels over the back of the neck, armpits, and groin. You can also wet the ear flaps and paws with cold water and direct fans toward these areas to help lower body temperature. However, do not overcool your pet or force water into their mouth. Avoid giving any medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen. Contact a veterinarian as soon as possible, as heatstroke is a medical emergency.
Dehydration
Dehydration in dogs can be identified by symptoms such as a dry mouth, thick and tacky saliva, or sunken eyes. If your pet is not vomiting, you can offer small amounts of water gradually to help rehydrate them. However, do not allow immediate free access to large quantities of fluids, and avoid feeding dry food until your pet has recovered or a veterinarian advises otherwise. Contact a veterinarian if the dehydration appears moderate to severe, or if your pet is lethargic, showing signs of pain, or has not eaten for more than a day.
Diarrhea and vomiting
Diarrhea and vomiting in dogs can be signs of various underlying issues. Watch for frequent, watery stool or your pet throwing up food, bile, or a yellow liquid or foam. If this occurs, remove access to food and water temporarily, check for signs of dehydration, and keep your pet isolated from other animals to prevent the spread of potential illness. If the vomiting stops for 6 to 8 hours, you can slowly reintroduce small amounts of water, diluted Gatorade, or Pedialyte to help with hydration.
When it’s time to offer food again, plain brown rice mixed with pure pumpkin can help soothe the digestive system, and small slices of ginger with a bit of honey may relieve nausea. However, do not give your pet any human medications unless instructed by a veterinarian, and don’t let your pet eat or drink until the vomiting has clearly stopped for at least 6 to 8 hours. Contact a veterinarian if the vomiting or diarrhea continues or worsens, as this may indicate a more serious condition.
Constipation
Constipation in dogs may present as frequent small bowel movements or exaggerated straining when trying to urinate or defecate. To help relieve this, you can add canned pure pumpkin or other sources of fiber like Metamucil, high-fiber vegetables, or fruits to your pet’s diet, and ensure they have plenty of water to stay hydrated. However, do not apply pressure to your pet’s stomach when lifting or carrying them, as this could cause further discomfort or injury.
Avoid giving any medications unless directed by a veterinarian, and never feed your pet toxic fruits such as avocado, grapes, or raisins. You should contact a veterinarian if your pet is vomiting, appears to be in pain, or shows any other signs of illness. In cats especially, straining might indicate the presence of urinary crystals, which can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Minor wounds
For minor wounds where there is bleeding but no exposed muscle, fat, or bone, start by applying gentle pressure to stop the bleeding. Once bleeding has slowed or stopped, carefully clean the wound to remove any dirt or debris, pat it dry, and apply an antibiotic ointment. Bandage the area using a three-layer approach: a non-stick contact layer, an absorbent middle layer, and a snug outer protective layer. Change the bandage regularly and watch closely for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or foul odour.
Raw honey can also be used as a natural antibacterial treatment, and Epsom salt soaks may help relieve inflammation, particularly in the paws. Avoid using any materials or substances not specifically recommended by a vet. Contact a veterinarian if the wound appears deep, is not healing, or seems complicated.
Poisoning
Signs of poisoning in pets can vary depending on the substance but may include vomiting, breathing difficulties, drooling, disorientation, or other unusual behaviours. If you suspect poisoning and cannot reach your veterinarian or a poison control center, you may attempt to induce vomiting—but only if your pet is conscious, not having seizures, able to stand, breathing normally, and the toxin is not a known irritant.
In such cases, a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution can be used at a dose of 1 teaspoon (5 ml). However, do not give any other liquids. You should always contact a veterinarian immediately if poisoning is suspected. You can also reach out to the ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 for guidance.
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