Electrocution
In order to avoid injury to yourself, it is imperative that you do not TOUCH your dog until the electrical source has been turned off. Electricity can flow through your dog and electrocute you.
Electrocution can cause severe tissue damage (like heat burn) and can lead to serious internal complications like pulmonary oedema (fluid on the lungs). Immediately veterinary care is required, but there are several things you can do at home to minimise the extent of the injuries and promote healing.
What To Do
What Not To Do
Any dog that has suffered electrocution should be taken to the vet, even if there are no apparent complications. Electrocution is a life threatening emergency. It may cause abnormal electrical disturbances to the heart or cause a build up of fluid in the lungs that could be fatal hours after the shock. Most patients are observed for several hours or overnight to make sure the lungs are normal and chest x-rays may be indicated.
In order to avoid injury to yourself, it is imperative that you do not TOUCH your dog until the electrical source has been turned off. Electricity can flow through your dog and electrocute you.
Electrocution can cause severe tissue damage (like heat burn) and can lead to serious internal complications like pulmonary oedema (fluid on the lungs). Immediately veterinary care is required, but there are several things you can do at home to minimise the extent of the injuries and promote healing.
What To Do
- Unplug the electrical source or shut off the electricity from the fuse box.
- If this is not possible, use a dry wooden broom or other non-conductive object to move the dog away from the electrical source.
- Check for breathing and pulse. Begin CPR (formerly called CPR) if necessary.
- Cover your dog with a blanker to prevent heat loss.
- Seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
What Not To Do
- Do not get the dog examined even though they may seem perfectly normal after being separated from the electrical source.
- Do not give any medications or liquids unless instructed by your vet.
Any dog that has suffered electrocution should be taken to the vet, even if there are no apparent complications. Electrocution is a life threatening emergency. It may cause abnormal electrical disturbances to the heart or cause a build up of fluid in the lungs that could be fatal hours after the shock. Most patients are observed for several hours or overnight to make sure the lungs are normal and chest x-rays may be indicated.
