Whether you’re out on the road, or just staying home, a first-aid kit is a necessary tool. And, while you may think of having one for your family, having one for your dog is just as important! First-aid kits are especially important if you are traveling somewhere remote, or going on a road trip or vacation. Here are some of the must-haves when creating your own canine first-aid kit.
What Is a First-aid Kit?
A first-aid kit can be a box, pouch, or bag filled with useful medications and supplies. You want to make sure that whatever you are storing your kit in is waterproof and won’t get damaged by heat, cold, or the sun. The pouch should also be easy to open and close in the event you need to get to it quickly. Keep your kit somewhere that is easy to access and grab in the event of an emergency. You want to have several tools, medications, and a few extra items in it.
Important Tools
Important first-aid kit tools to have include several items. Bandaging material, such as vet-wrap and gauze are important for stopping bleeding and cleaning wounds. An antiseptic cream or spray to clean any wounds is also helpful. Also, include some basics such as a thermometer, some popsicle sticks, and even a stethoscope. These help you take your pet’s vitals, and stabilize breaks or sprains. If you are traveling someplace that has venomous animals, keeping items for treating bites is also useful.
Important Medications
Over the counter medications such as antiseptic creams, or anti-nausea medications are good to have on-hand. If your pet has special medical needs, keeping a few days supply of their daily medications is useful. Pain medications or anti-anxiety medications prescribed by your vet should also be in your first-aid kit in the event of injury or loud noises that may stress your pet out. If you are traveling, keeping a few days supply of your pet’s food (especially if it is prescription) is important as well. If you are stranded somewhere, this will keep your pet from going hungry.
Extra Items
A canine first-aid kid should also have a few extras such as collapsible bowls to feed or offer water in, and a few bottles of water if you are traveling somewhere remote. Extra leashes and an Elizabethan (cone) collar are also useful. A list of local veterinary clinics (or your vet’s number) along with a copy of your pet’s medical records are also important if you end up at an emergency vet or your dog is injured.
Having a first-aid kit is important for both your family and your four-legged friends. Stocking your kit with the above items ensures you are able help your dog if they are injured or ill before you can make it to your vet! Be sure to always check and update your kit before any trip. You also want to update your kit yearly to remove any expired medications even if you only keep it at home.
Learn more about what to do to support your dog before you get to the vet’s office. Attend our annual Pet CPR & First Aid Course (for dogs and cats) on Saturday, March 2 at It’s Your Dog School for Dogs. CLICK HERE for details and to register.
All images provided by Creative Commons/Pixabay