Leading causes of preventable death in Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) for military working dogs (MWDs) include severe bleeding and respiratory complications. Severe bleeding, often from extremities or vital organs, can lead to rapid blood loss and shock if not promptly controlled. Thoracic injury, resulting from blasts, gunshot wounds or falls, can cause respiratory complications, such as pneumothorax (collapsed lung), and hinder the dog's ability to breathe effectively.
Our MWD Individual First Aid Kits (IFAKs) are designed to address these critical issues. Kits include tourniquets specifically appropriate for canine use, haemostatic agents, and pressure bandages to control severe bleeding. Handler safety is ensured with canine First Aid Muzzles standard in all kits.
The inclusion of chest seals and needle decompression tools ensures effective management of respiratory complications in the field.
Further attention has been given to ensuring the ongoing performance of MWDs through the provision of Carbodote Prime Gel (addresses gastrointestinal contamination & diarrhoea) and VetSense Energel (maintains electrolyte & glucose availability to K9s being put through their paces).
For a catalogue outlining our consulting and design process during the development of these you can request a catalogue here.
MWD handlers equipped with our IFAKs can provide immediate and effective care in the event of life threatening injuries. These kits are tailored to meet the unique needs of K9s in combat situations, ensuring that they receive the best possible care to survive and continue their vital roles.
Our commitment to the well-being of MWDs is reflected in the quality and thoroughness of our first aid kits, making them an essential component of any K9TCCC protocol.
View our full Working Dog First Aid range here.
Reference: Laura Miller, Gerardo J Pacheco, Jud C Janak, Rose C Grimm, Nicole A Dierschke, Janice Baker, Jean A Orman, Causes of Death in Military Working Dogs During Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, 2001–2013, Military Medicine, Volume 183, Issue 9-10, September-October 2018, Pages e467–e474, https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usx235