somerville dog: a weblog

Following two cases—one of them fatal—in which dogs were electrocuted in Boston this week, the City of Boston will form a task force to investigate the electrocution of dogs, according to a report by Christine Caswell on New England Cable News (NECN) yesterday evening.

Both stories below are from WCBV-TV The Boston Channel (Channel 5):

• "Dog Dies After Being Shocked On Sidewalk" (March 1, 2005)
• "Another Dog Shocked In Boston" (March 2, 2005)

Boston dog owners are organizing to be attentive, when they are out walking their dogs, for damaged, removed or newly installed electrical devices and to report any concerns to the City so that sites of concern can be cheked for their safety.

The following first aid and emergency care tips for electrocution are from VeterinaryPartner.com.

In order to avoid injury to yourself, it is imperative that you do not touch the pet until the electrical source has been turned off or moved.

What to Do

• Unplug the electrical cord or shut off the electricity.
• If this is not possible, use a dry wooden broom or other non-conductive object to move the pet away from the source of the electricity. 
• Check for breathing and pulse. Begin CPR if necessary. 
• If the pet is breathing, check its mouth for burns. Apply cool compresses to burns. 
• Cover the pet with a blanket to prevent heat loss. 
• Seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

What NOT to Do

• Do not fail to get the pet examined even though she seems perfectly normal after being separated from the source of electricity. 
• Do not give any medications or liquids unless instructed to by a veterinarian.

Any animal that has suffered electrocution should be taken to a veterinarian, even if there are no apparent complications. Electrocution is a life-threatening emergency. It may cause abnormal electrical activity of the heart or a build-up of fluid in the lungs which could be fatal hours after the shock.

via Boston Dogs and Ringer Playground Dog Park Group