Create a First-Aid Kit for Your Dog

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Maybe you’ve been in this situation. You’re at the park and your pup is happily pouncing along and then you hear a tiny yelp. Uh oh. Bee sting. You panic – just a little – and then wonder what you should do. Your first call should be to your veterinarian, but it might be good for you to have some supplies with you in case they give you some immediate instructions.

A first-aid kit is important not only in the event of a natural disaster, but any time a pet is far away from immediate help. It may even be a good idea to have one in your car or in a backpack you take with you on a walk or to the park.

Your first-aid kit should be durable, and a waterproof container is a great idea, too. If you can’t fit everything into one container, your dog can easily carry some of his own gear! There are some cool dog backpacks you can buy especially if you take your dog out on trails or camping with you. Make sure your dog isn’t carrying everything though. It gets pretty hot out there on the trails during the spring and summer months. You can buy a pre-made kit, and it should have most of what you need, but designing your own is a great way to make sure that what you have is customized to your pet’s lifestyle and needs.

What should your dog’s first-aid kit include?

  • Absorbent gauze pads

  • Adhesive tape

  • Cotton balls or swabs

  • Fresh 3% hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting (always check with veterinarian or animal poison control expert before giving to your pet)

  • Ice pack

  • Disposable gloves

  • Scissors with blunt end

  • Tweezers

  • OTC antibiotic ointment

  • Oral syringe or turkey baster

  • Liquid dishwashing detergent (for bathing)

  • Wound & Skin care spray

  • Antihistamine

  • Small flashlight

  • Alcohol wipes

  • Styptic powder

  • Saline eye solution

  • Artificial tear gel

  • Electrolyte replacement –sugar-free alternatives for dogs.

  • Collapsible bowl

  • Nail clippers or nail file

  • Towels and cloths

  • Phone number, clinic name, address of your veterinarian as well as local veterinary emergency clinics

Remember, your kit may contain more or less than what we’ve listed her based on your family’s lifestyle.

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