Mary Allen
Every year about forty dogs drown, most of them in the winter. Here is advice to keep in mind when you are near the ice, which can be very unreliable, and what you can do if the accident occurs.
Have Real Ice Sweat:
Never throw sticks or anything else for the dog to chase, unless you are absolutely sure that the ice holds for the dog.
Have the dog on a leash and preferably a harness. Then it is easier to pull the dog up if it falls in.
Stay by the shore so you bottom out if you were to go through.
Learn to read the ice, which places can be treacherous, such as flowing water. Listen to ice reports.
If an Accident Happens:
If the dog has cooled down, you should first and foremost dry it, feel free to message in the meantime as well. The heating should take place slowly, if the outer layer heats up too quickly, it will have negative effects on the body’s interior and it can also cause heat damage to the skin. Do not wrap a cold, wet dog in blankets because the blankets turn into a cooling wrap and then have the opposite effect.
If the dog is not breathing or has no pulse, start resuscitation attempts immediately on the spot. Then go to the vet immediately.
If the dog has water in the lungs, lift the dog by the hind legs or place / hold it with the head lower than the body so that the water in the lungs can drain out.
Pull out the tongue and remove mucus and other things from the mouth and throat.
If the dog is not breathing or lacks a pulse, give artificial respiration and heart massage.
Our pets are beloved family members that we want to save at all costs but do not go out on the ice yourself. If it does not hold for the dog, it does not hold for you either. If the ice is thin, try to lure the dog towards the beach via thin ice, so it can break it and hopefully swim that way.
With these tips, you as a pet owner are better prepared if the accident occurs, and remember: Do not take a chance.