HANDLING AND RESTRAINT OF AN INJURED DOG

Any dog in pain or severely injured cannot be held responsible for its actions. No matter how docile a dog may be, you should recognize that under certain circumstances your dog may turn and bite. This is an understandable reflex. You should take proper precautions so as not to be injured.

Apprehension is another cause of panic and aggressive behavior. If you plan to give an injection, or must do something that is apt to cause your dog pain, approach it with quiet confidence and a minimum of fanfare. Dogs are quick to sense anxiety in their owners.

Take precautions before doing anything that might excite or hurt your dog. Properly restrained, a dog usually will settle down and accept the treatment. A good assistant is a real asset.


- A strip of adhesive tape makes a good temporary muzzle. (J. Clawson)

There are several good ways to restrain a dog. They are illustrated in the photographs. An emergency muzzle can be made from tape, a necktie, silk stocking, piece of linen or anything suitable at hand. A good muzzle can be made by looping a leash around the jaws and fastening the end to a doorknob as shown in the illustration. Pillows and blankets around the neck are good for short procedures such as giving a shot, but an assistant is required to hold them in place.


- How to restrain your dog for medical care. (J. Clawson)


- Pillows around the neck are good for short procedures such as giving a shot. (J. Clawson)


- A piece of linen can be used in an emergency. It should be tied behind the head to keep the dog from pawing it off (J. Clawson)



- Lifting a small dog that must be restrained.

© Copyright 1998, Macmillan Publishing. All rights reserved.

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