Preparation = Calmer Humans = Calmer Dogs

This isn’t about expecting disaster.
It’s about not melting down if something happens.

Preparation = calmer humans = calmer dogs.

Have the boring info sorted before you need it

Save your emergency vet number in your phone.
Not “I’ll Google it”.
Saved. Favourited. Easy.

If you’re travelling, find:

• • Local daytime vets
  • Out-of-hours emergency vets
  • How far away they actually are

Do it once. That’s it. You’re prepared.

This isn’t to scare you.
It’s to help you scout it.

Transport matters more than people think

Have fuel in your car.
Not fumes. Not “it’ll be fine”. Fuel.

If you don’t drive, or your car isn’t always available, arrange one reliable person who could help in an emergency.

I am apparently that person for half the Town — including people I don’t actually know 😂

But seriously, don’t leave this bit to chance.

Have a small first-aid stash at home

Nothing dramatic. Nothing DIY-vet.

Things like:

• Pro-Kolin (or similar) for mild stomach upsets
• Vet wrap / bandage
• Dog-safe antiseptic (leucillin is my fav)
• Tweezers
• Saline or clean water for flushing

This is about tiding you over until the vets are open — if it’s appropriate.

Urgent is urgent. You go.

Know your dog’s normal:

• Normal appetite
• Normal poo
• Normal energy
• Normal behaviour

When you know baseline, you don’t second-guess yourself.

“Something’s off” is useful information when you actually know your dog.

Prep for greetings (this one really helps)

Have a small portion of your dog’s normal kibble or treats, taken from their daily allowance.

Guests can:

• Ask for a sit
• Give a treat
• Move on

It gives the dog something to do while hugs, handshakes and present chaos happen.

It’s interactive, it’s calm, it feels inclusive for the dog — and it’s real-life training in disguise.

This obviously depends on the dog and their ability, and not pushing it if they’re already over-aroused (see Public Service Announcement No. 3  (Christmas Stress in Dogs) for that bit).