Recently on the news there was a story about a dog needing to be rushed off of Camelback Mountain after it collapsed due to overheating while hiking with it’s owner. It is a situation no one ever wants to deal with, especially in Arizona where the extreme temperatures can make a small problem into a big one. While I cannot find an article with all of the details as to what happened, I figured it would be a good idea to write about general safety tips to consider while hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, etc with your dog.
1. Rest often, be sure to offer plenty of water. If dehydration occurs, slowly offer an electrolyte solution made of 1 litre of water, half teaspoon of salt, and three tablespoons of sugar.
2. In case of overheating, move to a cool or shaded area and place wet, cool towels on the neck, in the armpits, and between the legs. Get to help as soon as possible.
3. If unfamiliar with the terrain and plantlife, doggie shoes can prevent injuries from thorns, broken glass, or sharp rocks.
4. Do not use hydrogen peroxide on fresh wounds, use saline solution instead.
5. When wrapping an injury, use a sterile gauze to cover he wound, and then vet wrap. Do NOT pull vet wrap tight. Wrapping too tight causes lack of circulation.
6. Be aware of what your dog is getting into. If they have an allergic reaction to a plant or a sting, benedryl can be given to help relieve symptoms. 1mg per pound.
7. Tramadol is a recommended pain reliever in case of injury. Not only does it relieve pain but it calms the dog, making them easier to treat. This is a prescription.
8. Asprin can also be used in place of tramadol. 5 to 10mg per pound.
9. Always keep your dog within sight. If they do not have good recall, keep them on a leash. Your dog can encounter cacti, snakes, spiders, and scorpions, among other things.
10. Not all water sources are clean. Do not allow your dog to drink out of anything you wouldn’t.
11. In any emergency, getting your pet to the vet as quickly and calmly as possible is always the best bet.
These are just a few things I have found in my own research, but for a more in-depth, in-person discussion please join all of us this Sunday, July 12th at Noble Beast lead by the amazing Jennifer D’Oliveira. For two hours (2pm-4pm) we will discuss this expansive topic. The cost is free, and any donations made will benefit Mayday Pit Bull Rescue!
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