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 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. Then 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 while down 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.

Common First Aid

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 conveniently stored. A large, plastic pencil holder or a shoebox can do the job. Once you have the container picked out, be sure it is clearly marked First Aid For Dog. The supplies you'll need include:

• Gauze pads

• Antibiotic ointment

• Nonstick adhesive tape

• Cotton balls and swabs

• A roll of stretch bandage

• Tweezers or hemostat

• Styptic pencil

• Rectal thermometer

• Long strip of fabric or old pair of nylon hose for use as a temporary muzzle

• Thin plastic gloves for treating wounds and heavier gloves for possible bite protection

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.