First Aid. Assessment of Traumatic Injuries: Shock

Shock is a situation of "last resort" in which the body shuts down "non-essential" functions in order to preserve blood flow and adequate oxygen delivery to the heart and brain, which are the truly "essential" organs. A number of events can trigger shock, such as rapid blood loss, overwhelming infection, or serious trauma to internal organs. Although the series of events that constitute the shock reaction are intended to preserve life, they can also threaten life if they go on for too long, because inadequate blood flow to other organs can damage them severely. The most obvious signs of shock in a dog are pale gums and coolness of the extremities (lower legs, paws, and tail). To tell if the gums are pale, lift the dog's upper lip and look at the part of the gums near the teeth. Even in dogs with pigmented colored) gums, there is usually a thin line around each tooth without pigment. This should be pink. If you can't tell, press firmly on the gum with your finger for a moment. Then release the pressure. The area should blanch (become white) with pressure from your finger, but in normal situations, the pink color should return within 1 to 1 1/2 seconds. In shock situations, there is little change in color and what color there is often takes longer than 2 seconds to return. Shock is a life-threatening situation and requires immediate veterinary attention. Keep the animal covered with a blanket but do not apply extra heat, which may cause dilation of the blood vessels in the skin, robbing the heart and brain of much needed blood and oxygen.

Canine Anatomy (Click on Photo to enlarge)

Excessive Licking and Grooming

Your pet’s excessive licking and grooming can have several causes: stress, food allergies, and more. Your first step is a visit with your vet to determine whether it’s a health or behavior problem. Many pets are allergic to corn, a main ingredient in most dried pet foods. If your vet suspects an allergy, change the pet’s food and watch for improvements in your pet’s coat and behavior. Your vet can suggest brands of food that will help the most. If the licking is due to stress, try to remove the source, or simply manage the stress. This is particularly important in multiple pet-households. We have four, & the low man on the pecking order stopped chewing his fur when I started feeding him without the others present. I also give him ´special time´, i.e. an hour per day, when he is with me alone and gets undivided attention.

The Signs and Symptoms of UI in Cats

Urinary infection is a common cat health problem for cats, especailly males due to their physiology.

Although it is easily treated, it can lead to kidney failure and even death if left untreated.

If you suspect UI, take your cat to a reputable vet immediately.

Some of the symptoms and signs to look for include: Straining to urinate, discomfort while urinating, howling or crying while urinating, tinkling anywhere and everywhere (very small puddles), and discolored urine (indicating blood in the urine).

Cleaning Teeth

Clean teeth make a big difference in your pet´s oral health. The key to getting your pet to tolerate having his teeth brushed is to do it in small steps over time and to be patient and encouraging. Try to brush several times a week with a child´s toothbrush or a fingertip brush and a toothpaste designed for pets. Regular cleanings under anesthesia by your vet is important to address problems at the root line. Left unchecked, plaque buildup on teeth can ultimately cause infections that can lead to tooth loss, make eating painful, and puts your pet's internal organs (especially the heart) under pressure, therefore causing illness and premature aging.

Low Cost Medical Care for Dogs and Cats

If your dog or cat is sick or injured and needs veterinarian care, but your budget this month can´t afford the bill, call your local animal shelter/dog pound, humane society, ASPCA, or rescue organization. They have lists of low cost vets in your area, and can even help pay for vet bills in some cases.