Take care in approaching an injured animal. Even the gentlest dog may bite or struggle if in severe pain. First, have the K-9 handler attempt to muzzle the dog and/or restrain his head and neck before you approach, unless it is having fast or labored breathing. A firm, not tightly, placed makeshift muzzle using a rope or rolled bandage material can act as a restraint. A field expedient muzzle might restrain a large working dog somewhat, but an effectively muzzled dog can still be dangerous. Trusting implicitly a field expedient muzzle can easily result in injury to the care provider. It is preferable to rely on the handler to restrain his/her dog with a good muzzle. Ensure there is good, clear communication between the care provider and the handler throughout the entire treatment period. Speak in soothing tones and move slowly, trying to gain the dog’s confidence as you treat it.

Normal vital signs for dogs include a rectal temperature of 101°F to 102°F, pulse rate of 80 to 120 bpm (larger dogs 60 to 80, young or small breeds 100 to 120 bpm), and respiratory rate of 14 to 16 (adult dogs), and 20 to 25 (young dogs). Mucous membranes of the gums are normally pink and capillary refill (checked in gum over canine tooth) is <1 second. Signs of shock may include: pale gums, dry lips, weak and rapid pulses, cool extremities, rapid respiratory rate, agitation, restlessness, and collapse. Dilated pupils, respiratory depression, capillary refill >4 seconds, white mucous membranes, and rectal temperature <98°F are all late signs of shock and impending cardiovascular collapse (1).

Dogs utilize the respiratory tract to dissipate heat and do not rely on their skin for heat regulation, as humans do. Excessive panting and labored breathing in a hot environment may mean a rise in core temperature and impending heat stroke. The high normal range of canine core temperatures are 102°F to 103°F, and hyperthermia is indicated by a core temperature of 105°F 110°F (2). Prevention of heat injuries in dogs may be prevented by providing adequate rest and plenty of water, especially during hot periods. Vomiting, collapse, ataxia, and red mucous membranes are ominous signs and should be acted upon immediately.

The priority in heat injury is to lower the core temperature as quickly as possible. This is most easily and effectively accomplished by completely dousing the dog in tepid (not ice cold) water and blowing air (preferably via a fan) over the dog. Convective heat loss in this manner is the most effective way to lower core temperature. A rectal temperature should be obtained and cooling measures should be stopped at approximately 103°F. Do not give antipyretics in heat injuries. Transport for further evaluation and treatment once the core temperature has been lowered (2).

Wounds should be referred to a veterinarian for definitive treatment. Hemorrhage control follows the same principles as for humans by applying direct pressure followed by elevation, pressure points, and tourniquets, if required. Pressure points in the leg can be found on the inside of the proximal portion of the fore and hind legs, as well as the underside of the base of the tail. Tourniquets are reserved for situations where bleeding is severe and not slowed by direct pressure or pressure points.

As in humans, delayed primary closure is a reasonable alternative to primary closure in the tactical environment. Various factors, such as active bleeding or functional requirements, should drive decisions to close wounds primarily. If definitive veterinarian care is not available and repair is required, cleanse wounds in dogs as you would in humans with copious amounts of irrigation (3). Utilize anesthetics and nylon suture material to close gaping or bleeding wounds, but realize that the dog may chew or bite open the suture if it can reach the wound. Gently appose wounds, not typically closing wound edges as tightly as in people. Attempt to protect the wound and have the dog handlers supervise the dog to prevent the dog from reopening the wound. If the wound is clean, you can apply skin adhesives, using similar principles as in humans. Elizabethan collars are typically used on smaller animals and are generally not needed if the wound is closed and proper bandages applied.