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He's Hurt - I Want to Help

I'm walking my dog, Taylor, as I have done every evening for the past 11 years. And like every evening, my neighbor's dog walks right along with us. It's getting late, the sun has just set and I turn on my flashlight to light our way. Taylor and I cross the street and are heading home when I hear a terrible sound--crunching metal. I immediately go into panic mode--where is my neighbor's dog? I look back to hear him crying out and stumbling to the side of the street. He's walked with us for 11 years; he's Taylor's best friend; he's hurt and I want to help. My emotions kick in and I immediately come running to his aid--hands out to comfort him.

I feel his teeth sinking into my right palm. He's not growling or angry--he's hurt and scared and does what comes natural--protects himself.

Here are some tips from the American Red Cross Dog and Cat First Aid Program to help keep you and your pet safe:

1. Never run up to a sick or injured animal--even your own sweet pet. A pet who would never otherwise be aggressive, could strike out when frightened or in pain. Always approach a sick or injured animal slowly and cautiously, speak in a soft, soothing tone. Avoid direct eye contact as some animals may perceive this as a threat.

2. Be aware of the body language warning signs--growling, hair on shoulders, back and hind end standing up; snarling with teeth exposed. More signs may be ears straight back against the head, tail tucked between legs, etc.

3. Be aware of dogs that assume a submissive posture. This may be lying on their side with their belly exposed, making licking movements or urinating. Even though these are signs of submission, a fearfully submissive dog can quickly become a biting dog if you continue to approach.

4. Some body language warning signs for cats are crouching with ears flattened to their head; enlarged pupils; back arched with tail up and hair standing up. The cat may salivate or spit. Other signs may be that the cat appears to be walking on its toes with head and tail down, or the whiskers are turned forward and claws are out.

Any of these behaviors may result in a cat or dog attempting to bite. Do not attempt first aid on an animal exhibiting these warning signs. If you cannot safely handle an animal, call your local animal shelter or animal care or control agency. You can still help the animal while awaiting assistance--divert traffic if an animal has been hit by a car and is still in the street, or keeping other people and animals away. Call 911 if the location of the injured animal constitutes a safety hazard to humans.

By the way, my neighbor's dog was only bruised and sore--no broken bones. He no longer walks with us but waits for his owner to take him on a leash.

About the Author:

Learn to act with confidence during an emergency when rendering first aid to a sick or injured animals as well as other invaluable information about how to keep your pet safe by taking an American Red Cross Dog or Cat First Aid course. The cost is $40 and includes a first aid manual and CD Rom. Contact Deborah Judy at 343-2088 to learn more and to register.