Accidents

Accidents

by Anna Carr

ACCIDENTS - Anything that causes an animal physical damage is covered by ARNICA. Given as soon as possible after the accident it will minimize shock, swelling and stiffness. ARNICA TINCTURE can also be used on any bruising providing there is no break in the skin.

If an animal appears terrified after an accident, give ARNICA first and ACONITE second. This will help to calm them down and recover from the shock.

WOUNDS - Always give ARNICA first before gently cleaning the area. Remove any foreign objects and clean the wound carefully with warm water. Take extra care as the animal could be in shock and pain, it could bite. Pour CALENDULA over the wound without touching the area, then either cover the wound with Hyper/Cal cream or ointment, or soak a gauze pad and wrap wound. Wrapping can cause additional pain, so use your judgement. If so just use the ointment/cream. Again, if the animal shows signs of fright, give ACONITE also.

PUNCTURE WOUNDS - From nails, deep bites, etc., these are slightly different in that after giving ARNICA, it is wise to follow it with LEDUM which will greatly minimize the pain and prevent infection. If you can give it immediately it can also prevent tetanus. See instructions for wounds and cleaning the area.

TRODDEN ON PAWS - Tail shut in the door! Any damage to areas rich in nerve endings will need HYPERICUM. Given in both tablet form and tincture to bathe the area, which will bring immediate relief. Breaks in the skin will need CALENDULA tincture to clean, followed by ointment.

INSECT BITES - Some (hornet, wasp or bee sting) respond well to an onion cut in half and rubbed over the spot. Swelling which looks red and smooth should subside with APIS (every 10 min). Remove the stinger with a scotch tape or tweezers, or try to scrape it out using the flat of a knife. URTICA URENS tincture will ease the pain. Not all animals have a thick coat to protect them. Snake bites are more of a problem. With the correct remedy for each variety of snake, wonderful results are achieved. If you know the most likely ones to be in your area then ask a homeopathic vet to give you the antidote remedy to carry with you. CEDRON and ECHINACEA are both good general standby remedies. Remember insect bites are puncture wounds, so give LEDUM.

Prepared for Critter Chat by Anna Carr 5/97