K-9 First Aid Basics Gallery

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At a minimum, veterinarians recommend that K-9 handlers carry a first-aid kit, learn how to give injections, and know how to administer oxygen. A brief session with your veterinarian or even a vet tech should be sufficient to learn how to correctly give injections. Here are some photos to illustrate proper first-aid techniques.

For more information about first aid that handlers should know, read the POLICE Magazine article K-9 First-Aid Kit Basics.

Every K-9 first-aid kit should include a stethoscope so you can listen to the dog's heart. *Photo: Robin Zuckerman*

The correct position for administering chest compressions to a K-9 is very different from that of a human patient. *Photo: Robin Zuckerman*

All handlers should be proficient in the Heimlich maneuver and its application in the K-9. *Photo: Robin Zuckerman*

Veterinarians suggest K-9 handlers learn how to do a subcutaneous injection, where to insert a trocar to help relieve bloat, and how to give an intramuscular injection. These techniques don't take long to master and help save a K-9's life. *Photo: Robin Zuckerman*