Overdrive

November 2015

Overdrive Magazine | Trucking Business News & Owner Operator Info

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Y ou are driving team with your fur-baby when you notice he's not quite himself. Suddenly, he takes a turn for the worse, and you have a full-blown cat-astrophe on your hands. Use your smartphone to find the nearest emergency vet clinic. But if your location or time of day make that a pipe dream, get ready to take action yourself. You'll be better prepared for playing ama- teur vet if you pack a pet first-aid kit with these items: • Benadryl • Prescriptions • Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate • Immunization and medication records • Your vet's phone number • Antibiotic ointment and bandages for wounds Here are some common pet emergencies and ways to respond in lieu of professional help: Poisoning: If you suspect your dog or cat has swallowed some- thing harmful, such as antifreeze, insecticide or sugar-free gum, call your vet or Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435). Choking: If your pet is gagging on a foreign object, open its mouth and try to remove it. For a small animal, hold by its back legs and try to shake out the object. If there is no breathing, turn your pet on its side and apply pressure behind the ribs, pressing forward. Bee or wasp sting: Use a credit card to scrape out the stinger. Give a dose of Benadryl. Vomiting/diarrhea: Give Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate. Don't give over-the-counter meds to Collies or cats. Keep the pet hydrated. Watch for bloody or tarry stools, severe panting and distended stomach. Limit diet to bland white rice balls and water drained from overcooking rice. Heatstroke: If your pet has been exposed to severe heat and is having trouble breathing, move it to a shady area. Put a cool, wet cloth around its neck and head. Gently hose down with cool water. Seizure: Keep the area clear around an animal that's seizing. Don't put your hands near its mouth. Check out entertaining videos of the Worst Case Scenarios in the "30-second trucker tips" playlist at youtube.com/ OverdriveMag. 88 | Overdrive | November 2015 worst case scenario 19 Sick pet! Rob Smith Jr. Since it can be difficult to find a vet while on the road, it's helpful to pack a pet first-aid kit if your companion rides with you. By Carolyn Mason

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