What to Do if Your Dog Gets Accidentally Electrocuted

Dogs can accidentally come into contact with electrical sources, leading to electrocution. The consequences can range from mild to severe and may include injuries, heart issues, and internal damage. Immediate and proper first aid is crucial to improve your dog's chances of recovery.

Ensuring Safety

The first step is to ensure your own safety before approaching your dog. Switch off or unplug the source of electricity before you touch your dog. If the source is sealed or potentially live, do not touch your dog directly to avoid electrical shock.

CHECKING FOR BREATHING AND PULSE

Once it is safe, check if your dog is breathing and has a pulse. If your dog is unresponsive, you may need to perform CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) immediately.

CPR STEPS

Positioning and Airway

Place your dog on a flat surface. Ensure their airway is clear.

Respiratory Support and Chest Compressions

Breathing: If your dog is not breathing, give 2 breaths. Close your mouth around their nose and exhale gently. Chest Compressions: For medium to large dogs, place your hands on the widest part of their chest and push down firmly approximately 1/3 the depth of their chest. For small dogs, use one hand. Perform compressions at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.

Repeat 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths until help arrives or your dog starts breathing.

Seeking Veterinary Care

Even if your dog appears to recover, you should still take them to a veterinarian immediately. Electrocution can cause internal injuries, heart issues, or other complications that may not be immediately visible.

Monitoring for Symptoms

While waiting for veterinary care, monitor your dog for symptoms such as:

Difficulty breathing Seizures Burns or injuries at the point of contact Unusual behavior or lethargy

These symptoms can indicate ongoing issues that need medical attention.

Providing Information to the Vet

When you reach the vet, provide as much information as possible about the incident, including how it happened and any symptoms you observed. This information can help the vet in treating your dog more effectively.

Post-Emergency Care

Even if your dog seems to be recovering, keep an eye on their mouth, gums, and behavior. Sometimes, electrocutions can cause the tissues on the gums, tongue, and mouth to slough off, often peeling like a popped blister.

Handling Oral Tissue Damage

If only a small area is sloughing, you can use an oral analgesic like Orajel, which is usually considered natural and safe for dogs when used according to instructions. If a large area or the whole mouth is sloughing off, contact your vet immediately. Infection can become a significant concern, and your dog may need a feeding tube inserted to ensure they receive adequate nutrition.

It's essential to act quickly and efficiently to improve your dog's chances of a full recovery after an electrocution incident.