Part of being a good pet owner is keeping your pet happy and healthy. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to prevent your pet from becoming injured. Once your pet has sustained an injury, it’s important that you have a properly stocked first aid kit to care for your pet’s wounds. Here are some of my suggestions for stocking your pet first aid kit.
Stocking your first aid kit:
There are many pet first aid kits available for purchase, but you can certainly make your own. Before you begin, you need to find a storage container for your kit, it needs to be durable and waterproof. You will also need some plastic, zipping storage bags to store your supplies in.
Here is a list of items you should have in your pet first aid kit.
Scissors
Tweezers
Medical tape
Cotton balls
Gauze: You should have gauze in large and small rolls. Pads are also handy.
Styptic powder: This is also known as “Quickstop.” It’s commonly used when clipping a dog’s nails in case you nick the nail quick.
Antibiotic ointment: There are many brands of ointment that can be purchased over the counter, and it is commonly applied when dressing any wound. Ask your veterinarian which brand is best for your dog.
Muzzle: Even the most loving dog may bite if they are frightened. Placing a muzzle on your dog may be the only way to stop it from biting you or someone else while you are treating its wounds.
Thermometer: Sometimes knowing if your pet has a fever will make the difference between a trip to vet and a sleepless night at home.
Benadryl: Animals can have allergic reactions to any number of things. Having something on hand to treat an allergic reaction is a must. Ask your veterinarian about the proper dosage for your pet.
Syringes: Having a syringe available to administer liquid medication or to clean out a dirty wound is a must.
Leash: Even if this isn’t in your first aid kit, you should always have one on hand. You never know when you will need it.
Towels and wash clothes: These have multiple uses during an emergency. Having one or two of each in your kit will come in handy for sure.
Talk to your pet’s veterinarian about other items you should include in your first aid kit. He/she may be able to give you some pointers on which brand of items you should buy, and you never know, they may even be able to sell you the items you need to complete your kit.
Remember that this is a first aid kit. It is meant to be used for immediate care. If your pet is bleeding, having trouble breathing, or experiencing anything questionable symptoms, you shouldn’t delay seeking medical treatment. Your fast reaction may make the difference in life or death for your pet.
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