-Here is a list of what you will need to be emergency ready-
Most of us already have some sort of first aid kit in our homes for our own needs. However, we should not discount our pets from their needs of a first aid kit. If your pet has special needs, you should consult with your regular veterinarian to better determine what additions should be made to your pet first aid kit.
A basic pet first aid kit should include the following:
- A current animal first aid booklet, such as "The First Aid Aid Companion For Dogs and Cats," Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, by Amy D. Shojai
- Blanket. You will need a blanket to keep your pooch warm in case of serious injury. This will help prevent the dog from going into shock.
- Tweezers. Tweezers are great for removing stickers, splinters and ticks. There are commercial tick removers that are more efficient, but you may not have it on hand.
- Scissors. Scissors for cutting bandages that you apply to wounds or for cutting out things matted in fur, freeing your pet from entanglements.
- Muzzle. While cloth will work in a pinch, consider investing in an inexpensive muzzle for emergency transport, along with a leash. Even the most well-trained animals may bite when injured or afraid.
- Roller Gauze and Tape. If you have access to the tape that vets use, it is preferable. This tape sticks to itself and not to the animals hair. There are similar products at some drug stores.
- Gauze Pads.
- QuickClot or similar-to stop bleeding (wounds).
- Thermometer. Either a rectal or ear thermometer can be used. A dogs temperature should be between 100.5 and 102.5 F.
- Splint Materials. You can use a tongue depressor, 12-inch wooden ruler or thick magazine to make a splint. *For spinal injuries, secure your pet to a board with masking tape that will not hurt the fur or skin. Avoid placing the dog inside a crate or carrier, and call your veterinarian before heading to the hospital so the staff can prepare for your arrival.
- Latex Gloves for you to use while dressing the wound. Gloves help reduce the risk of spreading infection and just generally keep you from touching gross things your dog may have gotten into.
- Toenail Trimmer and Styptic Pencil for torn toenail. Cornstarch also works for torn nails, but not for skin wounds.
- Ice and Hot Packs cool down skin after a burn or keep an animal warm if hypothermic. Always use a cloth between the pack and skin and check frequently for redness or irritation.
- Antibiotic Ointment. Get an over-the-counter "general purpose" antibiotic ointment for light use with minor skin wounds. Not for eye use. Caution is advised for animals that may ingest by licking. The antibiotics are absorbed via the skin, remaining ointment may collect debris or actually slow healing in some cases. Use with discretion.
- Antiseptic Wash or Wipes. Look for non-stinging preparations such as chlorhexidine or betadine. Rubbing alcohol is not good for open sores or wounds.
- Benadryl Tablets at your vet's suggestions.
- Ear Syringe to flush wounds or administer fluids by mouth.
- Eye Wash. Make sure you use eye wash, not contact lens solution.
- Flashlight for obvious reasons! :)
- Peroxide and/or Activated Charcoal. These will be used if your dog ingests something harmful.
- Hydrogen peroxide can be used to induce vomiting after your dog ingests poisons. Activated Charcoal helps prevent the poison from being absorbed and can also help induce vomiting. In either case, check with your veterinarian before administering. There are some poisons that need to be treated differently and vomiting may increase the danger to your pet.
- All of your dogs medical records and pertinent info. This will include your veterinarians phone number, shot records and any medications your dog takes routinely.
