The first step of rescuing dogs is to learn the basics of giving care that will save the dog. Keep essential medicine and equipment with you and keep your actions clear. You are the best chance the dog has when it is in a critical condition and the next best rescue guys will be 2 hrs away. 


The most common situations demanding rescue are 1 or a combination of these situations

  • Dog has profuse external bleeding from an injury – the dog may go into shock and may not have long to live
  • Dog looks like its broken its back from a hit and run – the dog may go into shock from trauma
  • Dog has a fracture
  • Dog has a maggot wound on its body – not life-threatening in the very short run unless its an extensive wound to the head – but can be addressed easily
  • Dog has a festering wound but it does not have maggots – causing trauma and pain but not immediate death
  • Hyperthermia or heatstroke when the temp of the dog is > 105F
  • Hyperthermia i.e. when the temp of the dog is falling and is < 99F


Be prepared for rescuing dogs:

  • Know a good vet. A damn good vet. Someone who will take your call when you need it and give directions on phone to administer essential care.
  • Keep a treatment kit
  • Know how to administer an injection
  • Know how to orally feed medicine
  • Approaching a dog and restraining/ holding a dog to administer treatment
  • Checking on the dog to determine what level of intervention is required
  • Administering the medical care required
  • Force feeding a dog if necessary during rehab


First aid administered to the dog should be followed by immediate veterinary care. First aid care is not a substitute for veterinary care, but it may save the dogs life until it receives veterinary treatment.