Emergencies elicit two states that don't help matters any — shock and/or fear in the dog and panic in the owner. When dealing with an emergency, keep reminding yourself to stay calm and stay focused on what you can do for your dog. The first thing to do is call your veterinarian or the emergency clinic and let them know that you are on your way and why. Ideally, you should have someone drive you to the clinic while you manage your dog. After you've called the veterinary clinic and gotten someone to help if you're alone with the dog, follow these steps:

• Evaluate the dog's condition and deliver any first-aid procedures, such as reducing bleeding, putting on a muzzle so the dog doesn't bite you or someone else, applying any ointment, or wrapping a wound.

• Keep your dog still and warm by reassuring him and keeping a blanket on him.

• Make preparations to transport him so he experiences as little turbulence and commotion as possible. Be very careful when lifting him. Use a large sheet as a kind of hammock in which to contain him or lift him onto a board that will keep his body flat and somewhat immobilized.

Once your dog reaches the veterinarian's office, all you can do is await the doctors' assessment of your dog's condition. Try to stay calm until you have the facts. Since coping with emergencies usually involves having to transport the one who needs care, it's a good idea to have something in the car to help you stay calm and focused. That could be something as simple as chewing gum, or some hard candies to suck on. You might also consider keeping a small bottle of Rescue Remedy® in your glove compartment. This homeopathic formula was created for just such purposes, and since it is not a barbituate, you can use it safely even while driving. In fact, your dog could benefit from it, too. The bottle includes dosage recommendations that are applicable for dogs. It is a homeopathic remedy, so you can't overdose — though certainly you shouldn't give more than a few drops at a time.

Common First Aid

The scouts have it right when they say Be Prepared. When you are scared or upset about something that's just happened to your dog, you won't think as clearly. You might end up scrambling for supplies that could, instead, be ready and waiting for you. Where? In your handy first aid kit.

A first aid kit is simple to put together yourself, and if you do you'll know it has what you need in it when you need it. Use a container that can be securely closed and stored so that it's also easy to use. A large, plastic pencil holder can do the job, as can a shoebox. Once you have the container picked out, be sure it is clearly marked with something like first aid for dog. The supplies you'll need include:

Other supplies you should have on hand for your dog's (or your family's) general care include hydrogen peroxide 3 percent for cleaning and disinfecting; Pepto-Bismol or Maalox for minor gastrointestinal upset; syrup of ipecac to induce vomiting; a topical anti-inflammatory; and plain aspirin for pain.