Responding to Emergencies

Recognizing an emergency is a crucial aspect of responsible dog ownership. It can potentially save your pet's life. As dogs tend to be stoic animals, illnesses can escalate quickly and become severe by the time visible symptoms are apparent. Additionally, dogs cannot communicate their discomfort verbally, making it imperative to observe any changes in their behavior or physical condition, such as a lack of appetite, increased thirst, or lethargy. As a precautionary measure, it's advisable to seek veterinary care at the first sign of any unusual behavior. However, there may be instances where immediate action is necessary before seeking professional help. This chapter aims to equip you with the knowledge to identify emergency situations and provide initial assistance.

Staying on Top of Your Dog’s Vital Signs

It is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of what a healthy Husky looks like in order to identify when veterinary assistance is necessary. The following are the essential vital signs to monitor:

• Rectal temperature: The ideal range is between 100 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If your dog's temperature falls below 99 or exceeds 104 degrees Fahrenheit, it is imperative to contact your veterinarian immediately.
• Gum color: This color is an indicator of blood perfusion and oxygenation. Healthy gums should be pink. If your dog has dark gums, examine the eyelid, which should also be pink. Pale, blue, or yellow gums are a cause for concern.
• Capillary refill time: This is a rough indicator of your dog's circulatory health. Press your dog's gums and release. The gums should return to their normal pink color within a second or two. A slower or faster response can indicate a serious issue.
• Heart rate: A Husky's heart rate should be around 60 beats per minute, but this can vary widely. The heartbeat can often be detected on the left side of the chest. If you are unable to locate it, you may be able to check the pulse rate in the femoral artery on the inside of the dog's thigh.
• Respiratory rate: A healthy dog typically breathes between 10 and 30 times per minute. However, heavily panting dogs can breathe up to 200 pants per minute. Observe your dog while they are relaxing to monitor their breathing rate. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any abnormalities in their breathing.

Tip

It is recommended to contact your veterinarian if you observe any of the following symptoms, as they may indicate serious issues:

• Blood in feces, urine, or vomit
• Pale gums
• Persistent coughing
• Seizures or shaking
• Prolonged lethargy
• Unexplained weight loss
• Refusal to eat (for 48 hours) or drink (for 12 hours)

GET A DOGWATCH CAMERA

Identifying a potential issue with your dog is a vital aspect of responsible pet ownership. In situations where you are not physically present, such as when away from home, it can be challenging to detect such concerns. One solution is to invest in a specialized security camera designed to monitor your furry companion. Certain models come equipped with features such as bark alerts and treat dispensers to soothe distressed pets. While some cameras also include two-way speakers, it is important to exercise caution when using this function as it may cause confusion for your pet.

Assembling the Complete Pet FirstAid Kit for Your Husky

Ensure that you are equipped for any unforeseen circumstances by assembling a first-aid kit for your Husky. A lightweight tool box or an old fishing tackle box can serve this purpose. It is advisable to note down the correct dosage for medication for each of your pets on the inside of the box. It is also important to keep the first-aid medications current. Additionally, include a copy of your pet's vet records and emergency numbers (including the ER vet, your own vet, and poison control) taped to the lid of the box. For convenience, it is recommended to keep a copy of the same on your refrigerator door.

Remember

You can buy a ready-made kit or make one up yourself. In either case, here’s what should go into every Husky first-aid kit:

• Ace bandage
• Activated charcoal
• Adhesive tape and gauze
• Alcohol prep pads
• Antibiotic ointment
• Benadryl antihistamine (1 to 2 milligrams per pound, every 8 hours)
• Cold pack
• Cotton balls
• Disposable gloves
• Ear and oral syringe
• Electrolyte tablets to rehydrate
• Epsom salts
• Eye wash or lubricant (the kind made for people is fine)
• Gauze sponges
• Hydrogen peroxide (1 to 3 teaspoons every 10 minutes until the dog vomits)
• Imodium A-D (1 milligram per 15 pounds, once or twice daily)
• Kaopectate (1 milliliter per 1 pound every 2 hours)
• Magnifying glass
• Milk of magnesia, antacid and laxative
• Mineral oil, laxative (5 to 30 milliliters per day)
• Pepto-Bismol, anti-diarrheal (1 teaspoon per 5 pounds, every six hours) or tablets
• Petroleum jelly
• Providone-iodine solution
• Rectal thermometer (specifically made for canine use)
• Rubbing alcohol
• Safety pins
• Soft cloth muzzle
• Scissors (small blunt-end type)
• Splints
• Tweezers or hemostat

Administering Meds

Throughout the lifespan of your Husky, administering medication for various ailments, injuries, and preventative measures will be necessary. As a pet owner, you may be familiar with the challenges that come with administering medication to dogs and may also need to monitor their pulse and temperature. To assist with these tasks, the following tips can be helpful:

• Giving him pills: One recommended method for administering pills to your Husky is to conceal it in a small amount of peanut butter or a slice of hot dog. In the event that your dog is uncooperative, it may be necessary to manually administer the medication. One approach is to place the pill at the back of the dog's mouth, close their jaw, and gently breathe into their nose to encourage swallowing.
• Giving liquid medications: The most effective method of administering liquid medication to a dog is by incorporating it into their food. Due to their voracious appetite, this approach is typically successful. In the event that it does not work, a syringe may be utilized. Gently pulling the dog's lower lip away from their teeth and creating a pouch provides an opening for the medicine to be inserted.

Handling Accidents

In the event of an accident, it may be necessary to restrain your dog by means of a muzzle or binding his feet. If a muzzle is not readily available, one can be fashioned from a strip of cloth or nylons by crossing it over the dog's nose and tying it behind his neck (refer to Figure 14-1). It is important to periodically loosen the muzzle to allow for panting or vomiting. In more severe cases, covering the dog with a blanket may be necessary.

FIGURE 14-1: How to make an emergency muzzle.

Warning

Avoid moving an injured dog unless you have to do so.

If a canine has been involved in a vehicular accident, it is best to err on the side of caution and anticipate the worst. Despite appearing unscathed, there may be underlying internal injuries. It is recommended to seek veterinary care to ensure the animal's well-being. Indications of severe trauma include bleeding from the nose, mouth, and ears. However, certain internal injuries may not present themselves immediately and may manifest in more subtle manners such as pale gums, weakness, or lethargy. It is crucial to remain vigilant as delayed symptoms may lead to irreversible consequences.

Dealing with Bites

The inquisitive nature of the Siberian often leads them to explore areas beyond their limits, sometimes resulting in being bitten by venomous creatures. The subsequent sections provide guidance on how to respond if your Siberian is bitten by a snake or spider.

Snakebite

Canine pets have a natural inclination towards exploration, which may lead to encounters with snakes resulting in injuries. While most snake bites are not venomous, they still carry the risk of infection. Snake venom is a complex mixture of enzymes, peptides, and proteins that can adversely affect the nervous, muscular, and urinary systems. Additionally, snake bites can cause immense pain. Treatment typically involves administering intravenous fluids, antivenin, steroids, and antibiotics. Fortunately, most dogs recover from venomous snake bites. It is worth noting that snakes may use bites as a warning to deter dogs, and can regulate the amount of venom they release.

If your dog should happen to become a victim, do the following:

1. Identify the snake that bit your dog. If possible, please take a photograph of the serpent in question, ensuring that you do so in a safe manner. However, please do not spend an excessive amount of time attempting to do so, as your focus and attention should be directed towards the welfare of your dog.
2. Check your dog for bite/fang marks. Nonvenomous snakes typically leave teeth marks, while deep fang wounds are indicative of a viper attack. It should be noted that the coral snake, which lacks large fangs, is an exception to this rule.
3. If you see marks, wrap a constricting band just about the bite. A recommended addition to your first-aid kit is the BOA constrictor band, which is widely recognized as one of the best options available. If your Husky attempts to remove the band, it is advisable to muzzle him, although it is unlikely that he will do so.
4. Drive your dog to the vet. Try to keep both of you calm.

Warning

Please refrain from attempting to cut the wound and extract the poison by mouth. This action is most likely ineffective at this point and may result in further harm to yourself.

Spider bites

It is estimated that there are approximately 100,000 species of spiders globally, and it is possible that at some point, one of these species may bite your dog as a defensive measure. While nearly all spider species are venomous, the majority possess weak venom that causes only minor irritation in both humans and canines. Within the United States, there are three types of spiders that pose a significant venomous threat:

• Brown Recluse: This spider's bite can lead to severe sickness in dogs and results in ulcerated flesh around the wound. In some cases, skin necrosis may occur, causing the skin to fall away from the affected area.
• Black Widow: The venom of a black widow is a neurotoxin that can be dangerous, but it does not cause ulcerating wounds.
• Hobo Spider: Typically found outdoors, the hobo spider's bite is generally not toxic to humans. However, it can cause pain, redness, and twitching in dogs, such as Huskies.

Tip

If feasible, it is recommended that you apprehend the spider responsible for the bite and bring it along with your Husky to the veterinarian. However, it is unlikely that you will be present during the time of the bite or even notice it. In the event that you suspect a spider bite, it is imperative that you promptly seek veterinary attention for your Husky.

Stopping External (Wound) Bleeding

To properly address a bleeding injury in your Husky, it is recommended to apply direct pressure with a clean cloth. For minor wounds, bleeding should subside within five minutes. However, for major wounds, it is important to continue applying pressure until you are able to seek veterinary care. In certain cases, the use of an ice pack may also be beneficial. It is important to note that rectal bleeding may be indicative of parvovirus, while bleeding from the vulva could suggest the presence of pyometra or other internal infections, which require immediate attention from a veterinarian.

Keeping a Lookout for Bloat

A distended and taut abdomen is indicative of bloat, which arises from an accumulation of gas. Despite veterinary research, the underlying cause of this condition remains uncertain. Subsequently, the stomach twists, and without prompt intervention, your dog's life is at risk. It is imperative to seek veterinary care immediately, as the condition can lead to fatalities within a matter of minutes or hours if left untreated. For further information on recognizing and managing bloat in dogs, please refer to Chapter Focusing on Your Husky’s Health and Wellbeing. Fortunately, Huskies are not among the breeds that are particularly susceptible to this ailment.

Addressing Breathing Difficulties

If your Husky is experiencing difficulty breathing, it is imperative that you seek immediate veterinary attention. Signs such as labored respiration, gasping, and a blue tongue are indicative of a serious emergency.

Stabilizing Broken Bones

If your Husky sustains an injury to its leg, it is recommended to secure the leg with a temporary splint made of a board or similar object. It is important to position the leg in a natural manner, but refrain from attempting to set the bone yourself. In the event of a potential break to the back, pelvis, or ribs, it is imperative to stabilize the dog immediately without repositioning and seek veterinary attention promptly.

Paying Attention to Coughing

Coughing in dogs can indicate a range of conditions, including heartworm and exposure to secondhand smoke. It is crucial to observe the characteristics of the cough, such as whether it is hacking, wheezing, or accompanied by gagging, and how frequently it occurs. This information is essential for your veterinarian to make an accurate diagnosis and provide appropriate treatment.

Tackling Digestive Issues

Huskies may encounter various digestive concerns, such as diarrhea, constipation, or vomiting. These topics will be elaborated on in the subsequent sections.

Diarrhea

Tip

The leading cause of diarrhea in dogs is often referred to as dietary indiscretion by experts in the field. This term simply means that your dog has ingested something inappropriate, such as trash. If your dog experiences diarrhea, it is recommended to identify what they have consumed within the last 6 to 12 hours. In the case of a Husky consuming trash, the diarrhea should resolve once the offending substance has passed through their system.

Tip

In cases of uncomplicated diarrhea (absent of vomiting or other severe symptoms), the addition of canned pumpkin to your pet's diet can often provide relief. If the condition persists beyond a day or two, it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian. It is important to note that pumpkin pie filling should be avoided due to its high sugar content, as the primary goal is to increase fiber intake.

Remember

The presence of bloody feces, bloody urine, or straining in your Husky may be indicative of a health issue. It is recommended to promptly seek veterinary assistance if any of these symptoms are observed.

Constipation

Canine constipation is a common issue that can result from various factors, including the ingestion of indigestible objects such as chew toys, grass, or hair. Additionally, conditions such as kidney disease or an enlarged prostate may also cause constipation in dogs. It is recommended to take your dog's temperature and seek veterinary attention if it is elevated. In cases where grass or hair is visible in the anus, it is advised to handle the situation with care, wearing gloves and delicately easing the object out. Maintaining hygiene in the affected area by trimming excess hair and washing it with warm water is crucial.

Vomiting

Dogs possess the ability to vomit with ease, and the causes can range from ingesting garbage, changing their diet, consuming poison, experiencing an allergic reaction, or contracting an infection, among others. While most instances of vomiting in dogs are relatively harmless, it can also serve as a warning sign for severe conditions such as liver, pancreatic, or kidney disease, or diabetes. In case the vomiting persists, it is advisable to consult your veterinarian.

If you are comfortable with it, examining your dog's vomit can provide valuable insights. It is possible to identify the source of the problem by analyzing the vomit. If you notice blood or a substance similar to coffee grounds, it could indicate bleeding within your dog's intestinal tract. In the case of green vomit, it could be a sign of rat poison ingestion.

To assist in managing your dog's symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea, Pepto-Bismol can be a helpful remedy. For a fifty-pound dog, a slightly more than a tablespoon dosage is recommended. While liquid form is more effective, it can be challenging to administer. It is advisable for your dog to abstain from eating for a meal or two after taking Pepto-Bismol and to follow up with a bland, low-fat diet.

Tip

The optimal method for administering liquid to your canine companion is through the use of a syringe, which can be obtained from either a veterinarian or a pharmacy. In the event of an emergency, a turkey baster can also be a surprisingly effective alternative.

If your dog continues to experience vomiting or diarrhea, it is recommended that you schedule a visit with your veterinarian and bring a stool sample for analysis. Providing as much information as possible about the timing, frequency, and severity of the digestive episodes can aid in the diagnostic process and assist your veterinarian in determining the appropriate treatment plan.

Attending to Choking

Choking in dogs can occur due to a foreign object getting stuck in the airway, severe swelling of the throat (often caused by an allergic reaction), or constriction of the neck by an overtight collar or rope. In the event that your Husky is choking, it is important to take immediate action to dislodge the item. We recommend the following techniques:

• Gently reach inside the mouth to remove any visible foreign object. It is important to exercise caution and avoid pulling on delicate bones at the base of the tongue.
• Lift up your Husky's rear legs with their head pointed downward, as this may help dislodge the object. This technique is especially effective if you are tall and your dog is small.
• Use the palm of your hand to sharply strike the dog between the shoulder blades once or twice**.** If this does not dislodge the item, proceed with the Heimlich maneuver.
• Perform the Heimlich maneuver by clutching your dog around the waist from behind and placing your fist right behind their ribs. Compress the abdomen three to five times quickly. It is important to seek veterinary attention immediately following any choking incident.

Cooling Down Heat Stress

Huskies are known to be highly vulnerable to heat stress, which can manifest through various symptoms such as staggering, loud panting, vomiting, bright red gums, and a red, bleary look in the eyes. The body temperature may rise above 104 degrees, which can be detrimental to the dog's health. In such cases, it is essential to act quickly by providing water, submerging the dog in a tub of cool water, or applying cold wet towels. It is also recommended to seek professional assistance by calling your veterinarian.

Heat can also increase the chances of your dog getting a fungal infection.

Remember

According to veterinary experts, it is commonly believed that a cold and wet nose signifies good health in dogs. However, this may not always be the case. If you notice your dog's nose feeling hot and dry, it could be an indication of dehydration. In such cases, it is advisable to offer your dog some water. If the condition persists and is accompanied by other symptoms, it is recommended to seek professional veterinary advice.

Treating Poisonings

In cases of poisoning, with the exception of caustic substances such as Drano, inducing vomiting in dogs is often considered an appropriate initial measure.

Tip

To initiate vomiting in a dog, it is recommended to administer a solution of one of the following:

• A mixture of half water and half peroxide, with a ratio of 1 to 3 teaspoons of each.
• Lukewarm saltwater, with a ratio of 2 or 3 tablespoons of salt per cup.
• A solution of 1 tablespoon of dry mustard in 1 cup of water.

If the dog does not vomit shortly after the initial dosage, it is advised to repeat the process while waiting for veterinary care.

Tip

If the dog has vomited, or if inducing vomiting is not possible, administering 4 tablespoons of activated charcoal is recommended to effectively absorb any remaining poison.

The subsequent sections aim to provide information on several distinct types of poisoning that your Husky may come across.

Antifreeze poisoning

Antifreeze can have serious effects on your pet's central nervous system and can even enter the cerebrospinal fluid. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, and a staggering gait that may resemble drunkenness. Unfortunately, these symptoms may not manifest for up to 12 hours, by which time irreversible damage may have already occurred.

If you suspect that your dog has ingested antifreeze, it is imperative that you seek immediate veterinary attention. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. The most effective treatment is administered within four hours of ingestion. The leading antidote for dogs currently on the market is 4-methylpyrazole, which is sold under the brand name Antizol.

Chocolate poisoning

It is important to note that chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Theobromine is also present in tea and cola. The severity of the toxicity depends on the type of chocolate, with darker chocolate containing more theobromine. While milk chocolate is less toxic, it is still important to consult with a veterinarian to ensure your dog's safety. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, and increased urination and heart rate. If your dog has ingested chocolate within the past two hours, hydrogen peroxide can be used to induce vomiting. However, it is crucial to contact a veterinarian immediately in any case of chocolate poisoning.

Onion and garlic poisoning

It is important to note that onions and garlic can have negative effects on canine health. These foods contain compounds that can oxidize hemoglobin in red blood cells, leading to reduced oxygen transportation throughout the body. Even a small amount of onions, as little as a quarter cup, can cause anemia in a medium-sized dog, regardless of whether they are cooked or raw. While this condition is not permanent, affected dogs may require a blood transfusion. It is also worth noting that large amounts of garlic can have similar effects as onions. As responsible pet owners, it is important to keep these foods away from our furry friends.

Rat poison

It is important to keep rat poison away from pets as it can be extremely palatable to dogs, rats, cats, and children. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that it is kept securely locked away. Unfortunately, mistakes can happen, as was the case with Buddy, the dog next door. He managed to consume two cakes of poison after jumping against a door that was not securely latched. The poison is an anticoagulant, and symptoms may take three to five days to appear. It is essential to be vigilant as your dog may bleed to death internally before any symptoms are noticed. If you suspect that your Husky has been exposed to rat poison, it is recommended to induce vomiting immediately and take them to the veterinarian. The veterinarian will likely begin vitamin K injections three times a day for several days, followed by vitamin K pills for one to three weeks. This regimen saved the life of Buddy, who never showed any symptoms from his unorthodox eating habits.

Taking Care of Porcupine Quills

If a Siberian dog is left unsupervised, they may encounter a porcupine, a common inhabitant of northern forests. It is recommended to seek veterinary assistance if possible. If a veterinarian is unavailable, carefully extract the quills with pliers, ensuring that all quills are removed to prevent infection. It is crucial to keep Siberian dogs on a leash to avoid such situations.

Managing Seizures

Seizures can often indicate epilepsy, although there are other potential causes such as sleep deprivation, food allergies, overuse of supplements, exposure to toxins like heavy metals and flea dips, hypoglycemia, and dehydration. Indications of a seizure may include staggering, head tilting, sudden blindness, snapping, jerking, or unexplained aggressiveness. While seizures can be alarming, they are typically not life-threatening. Following a seizure, the dog may seek reassurance and affection from their owner.

Tip

During a seizure, it is important to note that the dog may not be aware of its surroundings or itself. It is recommended to remove any dangerous objects in the vicinity, but avoid touching the dog. If a seizure persists for more than 30 minutes, it should be considered an emergency, and the dog should be taken to a veterinarian immediately. To transport the dog safely, a makeshift stretcher can be created using a blanket. It is also advisable to keep a record of the length, frequency, and symptoms of all seizures for future reference.

Aiding Wounds

In cases where major wounds are sustained, it may be necessary to seek medical attention for stitches. However, minor wounds can often be treated at home. It is important to note that penetrating wounds in the abdomen or chest should be treated as serious emergencies.

Tip

It is important to carefully clean the wound, ensuring that any hair or debris is removed. It is no longer recommended to use hydrogen peroxide as it can cause tissue damage. Instead, it is advised to use a commercial wound cleaner such as Nolvasan or to wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 10 minutes. It is essential to ensure that the wound is washed thoroughly, as many individuals do not wash the wound adequately.

Tip

If the wound is a puncture-type wound or an abscess, contact your veterinarian.