GA ADT Veterinarian Team trains Combat Medics in Emergency First Aid for Military Working Dogs in Musa Qal’ah

Who: GA ADT Veterinarian TeamWhat: GA ADT Conducts Military Working Dog (MWD) emergency first aid procedures with Navy combat corpsmen and Marine MWD handlersWhen: 3 May 2013Where: FOB Musa Qal’ah, Helmand ProvinceWhy: To prepare combat corpsmen and dog handlers to provide immediate first aid and stabilization to MWD’s in a combat aid station in the absence of local veterinary service.

END STATE/EFFECTS: The GA ADT Veterinarian Team conducted hands on training covering the topics of proper IV catheter placement and fluid treatment, as well as emergency tracheostomy placement for upper airway obstruction in the combat setting.

SIGNIFICANCE: The GA ADT Veterinarian Team utilized time in Musa Qal’ah to instruct MWD handlers and combat corpsmen. They are trained as first line responders for MWD’s. This additional training allows them to practice hands on by properly placing an IV catheter and administering fluids to their MWD. Additionally, emergency tracheostomy was performed utilizing water bottles to mimic the windpipe for rapid placement of a breathing tube in the event of head trauma resulting in upper airway obstruction. This additional training will allow them to better handle MWD injuries and problems en route to the dedicated Veterinary Service assets at Camp Leatherneck. Providing hip pocket refresher training on the battlefield provides corpsmen additional instruction and opportunities to ask questions regarding emergency care of injured MWD’s. Trained medics and corpsmen capable of caring for minor problems can allow the MWD and handler to continue their designated mission without leaving the battlefield.

PATH FORWARD: The ADT will continue to take advantage of all opportunities to provide additional training in the area of veterinary skills as they present themselves. The Veterinary Treatment Facility at Leatherneck is the primary care provider and conducts refresher training in the AO.

Above: MAJ Johnson conducting first aid training on Daisy, with Navy corpsmen and Marine dog handlers at FOB

Musa Qal’ah.

Above: Navy Corpsmen and Marine dog-handler administering an IV catheter on Daisy, during MWD training

at FOB Musa Qal’ah.

UNCLASSIFIED / FOUO