Pets and Tourniquets
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How to Manage Catastrophic Bleeding in Animals and Humans
Understanding Catastrophic Bleeding
In the event of an amputation or a severe bleed on an animal's limb, immediate action is required to stop blood loss, which can quickly become fatal.
Using Direct Pressure
For minor cuts, applying direct pressure above the wound can help reduce blood flow temporarily. However, for severe bleeding, a tourniquet is necessary.
Commercial Tourniquets
Commercial tourniquets are widely used in first aid kits, medical kits, and by the military. However, most of these are designed for humans and are not effective on animals due to their size and shape.
- Common tourniquets: Not suitable for animals due to limited tightening capability.
- Stat Tourniquet: A possible option for large breed dogs but not ideal for smaller animals.
Improvised Tourniquets
Improvised tourniquets have been used in first aid for many years. They involve using fabric or material to wrap around the limb and a strong object to act as a windlass to tighten the tourniquet.
Materials for an Improvised Tourniquet
- A triangular bandage, tie, scarf, or torn t-shirt.
- A strong object such as a screwdriver, spoon, or knife to act as a windlass.
- Avoid using thin materials like string, as they can cut through the skin.
Applying an Improvised Tourniquet
- Wrap the triangular bandage around the limb, ensuring it is broad and not too tight.
- Place the windlass (e.g. screwdriver) over the bandage and secure it with a knot.
- Twist the windlass to tighten the bandage until the bleeding stops.
- Secure the windlass in place with an additional knot.
- Do not remove the tourniquet; only a vet should do so.
Using TourniKEY Plus
The TourniKEY Plus is a low-cost, effective alternative designed for humans but also usable on large breed dogs. It provides a safer and more portable option than carrying improvised windlasses.
Key Takeaways
- Use a tourniquet only for life-threatening bleeding.
- Ensure it is tight enough to stop the bleeding.
- Never remove a tourniquet yourself; a vet must do this.
- Having a triangular bandage and a TourniKEY Plus in your first aid kit is highly recommended.
Understanding and practising these skills can help save lives, whether dealing with an animal or a human emergency.
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