As many as 50% of cases Vets see are for ailments which are minor or were preventable. But sometimes knowing when a visit is required is not always self evident. Most pet injuries are of a minor nature which can be remedied by quick thinking treatment by the owner using a range of domestic products.

Minor Cuts and Grasses
Providing the wound is not deep and it is not bleeding heavily, the wound can be bathed gently in clean water and clip any fur which may be in the way before applying an anti-septic cream or ointment. A bandage is often necessary to try to prevent the dog from licking off the cream before it has had a chance be absorbed but care should be taken if using sticky tape to secure the bandage that it is secured to the bandage and not the fur.

Ticks or fleas

Ticks can be easily removed by applying a drop of surgical spirit or an ice cube onto the tick to causes it to loosen its grip. A small pair of scissors opened in a “V” can be slid gently under the tick to lever it off. An alternative method is to make a paste of orange rind and apply it evenly on the fur of the dog. Let it remain there for five hours and then wash it gently.

Dry, cracked paws
Take Vaseline or petroleum jelly and apply it to the paws each day for up to a week and restrict exercise, particularly on grass or fields which may have been sprayed with insecticide. You should find improvements within a few days and the paw will heal. If however there is no sign of improvement you should consult your Vet.

Odor problem
Adding a few drops of vinegar in the dog's bath water is a simple remedy but if you have trouble getting your dog in the bath, using baking soda as a dry shampoo will also work.  Sprinkle it on your dog’s coat and leave set for a few minutes and then brush out.

Insects and bites
Insect stings and bites are another common problem with dogs. As soon as you notice this, apply a solution of baking soda and water on the stung area and ice to relieve any swelling.  If you notice any difficulty breathing after a sting, however, take your dog to the vet immediately as he or she may have an allergic reaction to the sting.

Diarrhea
Most dogs will suffer from this at some time each year and is generally nothing to worry about but there are exceptions which you need to be aware of. Most episodes of diarrhea soon correct themselves as the dog effectively rids itself of whatever was irritating the bowels. Starving your dog for 24 hours may help in getting your dog’s metabolism back on track, and it will certainly not harm your dog not to eat for 24 hours.

Chicken is an excellent recovery food as it is easy to digest but there are also several complimentary foods available.

A word of caution is in order here.  If your dog is experiencing diarrhea try to find the underlying cause before attempting any home remedies. If no cause can be found or the diarrhea persists, call your vet; It is better to be safe than to lose your beloved friend.