It is impossible to foresee what kind of incidents might occur with pet ownership, but when an emergency happens, time is of the essence. Being prepared can be the difference between life and death for that very precious furry family member.
How to Stock a Canine First Aid Kit
Whether the first aid kit is for use at home, or will be used to travel, should dictate what type of container is chosen, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference. Some dog owners prefer a large Tupperware container for its easy store-ability and moisture control. Others prefer a first aid kit more suitable for travel, and then something with a handle works best. An inexpensive fishing tackle box and sectional arts and craft cases are good choices.
First and foremost, laminate a 3 x 5 card with all of the dog's veterinary information, including the local 24 hour emergency clinic and a number for poison control. Another information card should include the dog's personal data including age, weight, drug allergies, sensitivities, temperament, and base line temperature. No point in laminating this card as it will need to be updated. Include a muzzle because even the best behaved dogs will bite when hurt or scared.
Be sure the first aid kit contains all the necessary material to make a bandage including; sterile gauze pads of all sizes, 1-2 in. rolls of stretchable and non-stretchable gauze, Ace bandage, Saran wrap to seal wounds, medical tape, and blunt scissors.
Detailed List: Necessary Supplies For a Dog First Aid Kit
- Duct tape to help control the dog, if necessary
- Bubble wrap for use as a splint
- Tweezers or hemostats for removing splinters
- Electric razor/clipper to shave away fur
- Needle nosed pliers to remove embedded objects
- Sufficient sized needle-less syringe or eyedropper for administering medicine
- Rectal thermometer
- Clean towel or blanket to keep the dog warm in case of shock and aid in transport
- Hot and cold packs (can be found at local drug store)
- Betadine skin cleanser
- Cotton balls and clean wash cloth
- Lubricants, like k-y jelly or Vaseline
- Saline solution (for contact lenses) will flush wounds or eyes clean
- Karo syrup or honey for shock
- Antibiotic ointment
- Activated charcoal prep and 3% hydrogen peroxide (consult w/ poison control for use)
- Ipecac syrup for inducing vomiting
- Buffered aspirin for pain (consult vet for dosage)
These are the essential amenities for a basic canine first aid kit, and additional supplies can be added to meet the varying needs of individual dogs. It is important to note that no matter what the injury, the pets veterinarian should be consulted and/or advised. There may be further attention needed that is not easily recognizable.
Being prepared for the most common injuries and illnesses is extremely important for any dog owner, and having a dog first aid kit will supply materials necessary for immediate attention. There are commercial kits available, but building one personal to a specific dog and his individual needs is best. Constructing a first aid kit also allows the dog owner to be immediately familiar with its contents, and therefore more calm during a potentially chaotic time.
Source
Amy D. Shojai, The First Aid Companion For Dogs & Cats. "Your Pets Essential Medicine Chest".
Rodale, Inc. 2001
Valerie Modreski - Ms. Modreski has worked as a writer for over 30 years. Valerie began her career on the editorial staff of the Broward College academic ...
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