01 - Protect, Alert, Warn

Objectives:

Knowing how to protect the victim and alert first aid services.

The dog's life can be threatened by an accident or by extreme illness.

Know the different first aid services and veterinary treatments available in order to provide adequate services.

In an emergency situation, everyone should:
- protect the dog, the surrounding people and one's-self to the best of their ability while waiting for the arrival of first aid services;
- warn adequate structures;
- carry out the following simple procedures to conserve the animal's life.

Protect the Accident Victim

Ensure uninhibited access to the danger zone by setting up a security perimeter.

The wounded or suffering dog may show signs of aggression and may present the risk of biting.

Warn:

When?

- In the possibility of danger concerning the animal;

- As soon as possible after a rapid and concise analysis of the situation and its risks.

Who?

- If the dog poses a threat to the community, call first aid services [on] 112;

- If the dog presents no immediate danger to others and its owner has been identified:

- during the daytime, call the closest veterinarian or your own (don't forget their phone number);

- during the nighttime and public holidays, call the closest on-call veterinary clinic.

- If the owner has not been identified, contact the municipal or rescue services.

What to say?

It is important to use a calm and clear tone to report the problem:
- the nature of the problem (fall, accident on a public walkway) and the eventual risks (fire, explosion, collapse, chemical products, biting);
- a very precise location of the event;
- number of dogs concerned;
- size, age and breed (if possible);
- recognition of the severity of the dog's state;
- first measures taken and procedures carried out;
- contact details of the dog-owner;
- wait for instructions before hanging up.

How to Protect the Dog and Warn Others?

Wounded dog on the road

1 - Dog allows itself to be approached and examined:
- create a security perimeter that enables access to those aiding;
- move the dog with care to prevent an additional accident;
- practice first aid procedures;
- call first aid or the closest veterinarian and follow their instructions.

2 - Dog doesn't allow itself to be approached:
- mark the vicinity to create a security perimeter and divert the traffic if necessary;
- call the firemen and the police force, indicating that the dog presents a danger for the surrounding population (risk of biting...);
- follow instructions.

Dog is suddenly sick:
- leave the dog in a calm and shaded area;
- practice first aid procedures;
- call first aid or the closest veterinarian and follow their instructions.

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