First aid for small hunting dogs: Your comprehensive guide

If you own a small hunting dog, you know that these energetic and brave animals are always ready to give their best on the hunt. However, their adventurous spirit and field work can also lead to injury or illness. To be prepared for such emergencies, it is important to know the basic first aid techniques for small hunting dogs. In this article, you will learn how to help your four-legged hunting companion in an emergency situation.

Why first aid is so important for small hunting dogs

Hunting dogs are often out and about in rough terrain, exposing themselves to various dangers. They can injure themselves on thorns, be stung by insects or even ingest poisoned bait. A quick and careful approach can make the difference between a speedy recovery and a more serious injury.

• Small hunting dogs such as terriers and dachshunds are sometimes braver than they can afford, leading to frequent injuries.
• The ability to provide first aid in an emergency situation can significantly improve the chances of survival and recovery.

First aid equipment for small hunting dogs

Before you head out into the great outdoors, make sure you have a well-stocked first aid kit with you. Here are some essential items you should have in your first aid kit:

1. Sterile wound dressings: To clean and cover bleeding wounds.
2. Dressing material: Elastic bandages and gauze bandages to dress and protect wounds.
3. Antiseptic spray or ointment: For disinfecting cuts and scratches.
4. Tick tweezers: For removing ticks that may appear while travelling.
5. Thermal blanket: To keep the dog warm if it is hypothermic.
6. Scissors and tweezers: For various minor procedures.

Immediate measures in the event of injuries

It can happen that your small hunting dog suddenly suffers an injury. Here are some common injuries and the appropriate first aid measures:

Wounds and cuts

• Stop the bleeding: Apply light pressure to the wound to slow the bleeding.
• Clean the wound: Rinse the wound with clean water and apply antiseptic spray.
• Apply wound dressing: Cover the wound with a sterile compress and secure it with a bandage.

Tick bites

• Remove tick: Use tick tweezers to carefully grasp the tick and pull it out.
• Disinfect the area: Clean the bite site with antiseptic solution to prevent infection.

Poisonings

• Recognise the signs: Vomiting, diarrhoea, trembling or lethargy may indicate poisoning.
• Contact your vet: See a vet immediately and do not give the dog anything to eat or drink.

Preparation for emergencies

As the old saying goes, prevention is better than cure. It is therefore crucial that you prepare for emergency situations before they occur.

Regular training

Make sure that your small hunting dog is regularly trained and well behaved. This way you know that he will listen to your commands in an emergency and you can remove him from dangerous situations more quickly.

Planning hunting missions

Plan your hunting trips well and know the area you are travelling in. Find out about possible sources of danger and make sure you have the contact details of the nearest vet to hand.

When you should visit the vet

Although first aid at the scene can solve many problems, there are situations where a visit to the vet is essential. Here are some signs when you should take your small hunting dog to the vet immediately:

• Heavy or uncontrollable bleeding
• Severe respiratory distress or suffocation
• Symptoms of poisoning such as tremors, cramps or lethargy
• Fainting or unconsciousness
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea

Closing thoughts

The Care of small hunting dogs requires not only love and patience, but also the ability to act quickly and efficiently in an emergency. With the right knowledge and preparation, your little hunting dog will be safe and sound on exciting adventures with you. Remember: every second counts and your prudence could save the life of your little hunting friend.

FAQs

How do you give first aid to a dog?

Classic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for dogs consists of the following steps:

1. Place the dog on a flat surface on the right side of the body.
2. Check the airways and remove foreign bodies if present.
3. Make sure the dog is not breathing and start with chest compressions. Press firmly and quickly on the chest 30 times, about a third to half the depth of the chest.
4. After the compressions are complete, perform artificial respiration. Close the dog's mouth and blow air into the nostrils. Repeat this about ten times per minute.
5. Alternate the ratio of 30 compressions and two puffs of air until the dog starts breathing again or the vets arrive.

When is a hunter allowed to shoot at a dog?

It is true that hunters are allowed to shoot poaching dogs. However, only under certain conditions: For example, the dog must be travelling without a handler, have picked up the scent and actually be in a position to injure the wild animal. It is therefore essential that hunting dogs always remain under control and supervision in order to avoid such tragic incidents.

What is the most important test for hunting dogs?

The Verbandsgebrauchsprüfung (VGP) is the most comprehensive of all hunting dog tests. In this test, the dog demonstrates that it is a reliable hunting helper in the forest, in the field and in the water thanks to its obedience, strong nerves, resilience and willingness to work. This test is a benchmark for the versatility and effectiveness of a hunting dog.

How much does hunting dog training cost?

The total costs for the training and examinations - not including own hours - quickly add up to around 1,760 euros. These costs are made up of training courses, examination fees, travelling expenses and the necessary equipment. However, the investment in professional training can pay off in many places with a well-trained and reliable hunting assistant.

How do I remove a tick from my small hunting dog?

Ticks should be removed carefully to avoid infection. Use special tick tweezers or loops to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible. Pull the tick out evenly and not jerkily. Thoroughly disinfect the bite site afterwards. Take care not to crush the tick, as this can increase the risk of infection.

What preventive measures can I take to keep my hunting dog healthy?

Regular visits to the vet, vaccinations and a balanced diet are essential for the health of your small hunting dog. Also make sure that your dog is sufficiently trained and in good condition before annual hunting trips. Make sure you check him for injuries, parasites and foreign bodies after each outing.