First Aid Treatment For Frostbite In Dogs

Cold weather can pose a threat to the health of every living creature, and frostbite is a distinct possibility in dogs especially. Dog breeds that are usually quite hearty such as shepherds and huskies can be very vulnerable to cold temperature extremes when left outside for extended periods of time. While their torso may be well-protected from frostbite, their extremities such as their noses, ears, paws and tails are prone to frostbite if exposed carelessly by a dog owner's lack of attention. By nature, a dog's system restricts blood flow to extremities in severe cold conditions in order to maintain an adequate core body temperature. This causes the affected body parts to receive tissue damage as a result of lack of blood flow and oxygen deprivation. Not only is frostbite in dogs quite painful and can be life-threatening, but it is absolutely preventable by simply limiting the amount of time a dog spends outdoors.

Prior to treating a dog for frostbite it must first be determined if a dog is just cold from exposure or really has frostbite. This is not always a simple task as it can take days for frostbite in dogs to become apparent, and usually by that time it has become a serious issue. A dog that is experiencing frostbite at first will present skin that is very cold to the touch, and will become very painful as it warms. This progresses to the skin becoming red and scaly, and eventually the skin will turn black as the tissue dies from lack of oxygen and blood.

When treating a dog suspected of having frostbite, it is imperative not to heat the skin too quickly. A good way to warm a dog is to wrap it in a warm towel or blanket that has been gently heated in a microwave oven. Rubbing or massaging a dog with frostbite is not recommended, but is is permissible to place you hands upon a dog's extremities without rubbing in order to allow it the absorb the warmth of your hands, if it is agreeable to the dog.

If there is any question that a dog may have frostbite, it should be taken to a Veterinarian immediately. A vet may keep the dog as a patient for a few days, while determining the severity of the affected areas. Professional treatment for frostbite in dog's may include pain medications, antibiotics, and the possible surgical removal of dead tissue, If addressed quickly, a dog with frostbite has a good chance for a full recovery.

published 2 years ago

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