Elastic rubber bands or bandages are suitable for tourniquets. They should be applied several inches above the bleeding site with only enough pressure to stop the bleeding. The tourniquet should be slowly released about every 15 minutes and then reapplied until the bleeding can be controlled with a pressure bandage. This condition is basically a failure in blood circulation. It can result from loss of blood, severe pain, severe physical and emotional stress, extensive tissue damage, or protracted vomiting.
Shock is often a consequence of automobile injury.
When suffering from shock, a dog may appear to be unconscious or semiconscious. Its mucous membranes will be pale and cold, its breathing will be rapid and shallow, its pulse will be feeble and rapid, and its body temperature will be subnormal. A dog in shock is in immediate danger of dying. A dog that appears to be in shock should be kept as quiet as possible. It should be positioned with its head slightly lower than the body, and covered with a light blanket or towel.