Electric Shock Injuries in Dogs

Electric Shock Injury Treatment in Dogs

Young dogs like to chew on anything they can get a hold of, which can put them at risk for electric shock. If a dog happens to suffer an electric shock, you must first think of your safety before assisting. Here are simple tips to help you.

Symptoms of Electric Shock

A rigid or convulsing dog near or lying on an electrical source like a cable. The dog can also be near the power source, but around a pool of liquid, like water, that can carry the electrical current. Also, tree roots may carry electricity during a flash of lightning.

First Aid tips

Don’t touch the fluids around the dog, or the dog itself, mainly if the pet is rigid. You may get a fatal shock yourself if you try and touch the dog immediately. Instead, you should follow these steps:

• Switch of the main power supply
• Use a non-conductive object like a wooden broom to slowly move the affected dog away from the electricity source.
• Check for breathing and a heartbeat, and then give artificial respiration and CPR as necessary.
• Apply cold compress around the mouth if the dog had chewed on the power cables, to restrict the damage.

After the dog recovers, immediately take him to your vet. Also, keep monitoring his or her pulse and breathing for a day after the electrical shock injury.

Even if there are no visible symptoms of injury after an electric shock, it is advisable to go still to see your vet. There could be some internal damage and lung fluid buildup that aren’t visible outwardly but may cause severe trouble after the injury.

Causes of Electric Shock Injury 

The primary cause of electric shock is when a dog chews on power cables. Even though it seldom happens, dogs urinating on exposed power lines may also get shocked. Also, some dogs may suffer from lightning shock; though this rarely occurs, the effects are the same.

Preventing Electrical Shock Injury in Dogs

Think of your dogs as curious, inquisitive children, and then take the necessary steps to ensure their safety in your home. Here are some handy tips:

• Cover all power cables to avoid puppies from chewing on them
• Never leave young dogs in an area with uncovered sockets or live cables
• Evaluate your home and remove any trailing power cords
• Keep cables near the walls and out of reach and sight of your dogs
• Please turn off all power sockets when not using them

References: Petmd, The spruce pets, Petmd