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When to panic about your dog’s ailments

Being inquisitive, dogs usually investigate things with their nose or front paw, and could get themselves into a bit of trouble...

Allergic reaction

Being inquisitive, dogs usually investigate something moving in the garden with their nose or front paw.

In the event of a bite or sting, the first thing you will notice is a swollen face or paw and the dog will rub its face with its paw or against an object.

If the paw is swollen, the dog may bite it to relieve irritation. Usually it is difficult to determine what caused the allergic reaction. If your dog is not distressed and the swelling is small and local, investigate the swollen area for a sting or bite mark and apply a commercial preparation such as calamine lotion. If the swelling is extensive and the dog is distressed, consult your veterinarian

Fish hook caught in the lip

Do not try to push or pull the hook. If the dog is quiet and the barbed end of the hook is protruding through the lip, seek the help of an assistant who will hold the dog by the scruff of the neck to control movement of the head.

With a pair of pliers, cut through the hook between the barb and the skin, allowing the rest of the hook to be removed relatively easily.

If the dog is agitated or the barbed end of the hook is embedded in the lip or mouth, seek veterinary assistance.

If you notice a fishing line or thread disappearing into the dog’s mouth, open the mouth, and if it appears to disappear over the back of the tongue, pull the line or thread gently. If it will not budge, do not persist with the pulling and do not cut the line or thread. The line could be very useful to the veterinarian to locate the hook or needle and assist in its removal. Take your dog to your veterinarian immediately .

 
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