Should your dog be injured, you can give him first aid which is, in general, similar to that for a human. The same principles apply. Superficial wounds should be disinfected and healing ointment applied. If the cut is likely to get dirty apply a bandage and restrain the dog so the he won’t keep trying to remove it. A cardboard ruff will prevent him from licking his chest or body. Nails can be taped down to prevent scratching.
A board splint should be put on before moving a dog which might have a broken bone. If you are afraid that the dog will bite from pain, use a bandage muzzle made from a long strip of cloth, wrapped around the muzzle, then tied under the jaw and brought up behind the ears to hold it on. In case of severe bleeding apply a tourniquet—a strip of cloth wrapped around a stick to tighten it will do—between the cut on a limb and the | heart, but loosen it every few minutes to avoid damaging the circulation.
If you suspect that your dog has swallowed poison, try to get him to vomit by giving him salt water or mustard in water. In all these cases, rush him to your veterinarian as soon as possible, after alerting him by phone.
In warm weather the most important thing to remember for your dog's sake is providing fresh water. If he tends to slobber and drink too much, it may be offered at intervals of an hour or so instead of being available at all times, but it should be fresh and cool. Don't over-exercise the dog or let the children play too wildly with him in the heat of the day. Don't leave him outside without shade, and never leave a dog in a car which could become overheated in the sun. It should always have some shade and ventilation through the windows.