Items to Include in a Pet First Aid Kit
Being a pet parent or pet sitter is a rewarding experience full of tail-wagging fun, but what should you do if the pet in your care becomes ill or injured? These situations can happen at any time and being ready for them is crucial to your dog or cat’s health and well-being. One great way to be prepared for an unexpected pet emergency is to keep a Pet First Aid kit.
This National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, we have compiled a list that features all the essential items you should include in a Pet First Aid kit. If equipped with the following products, you will be able to treat a wide range of issues—helping your furry
friend as best you can!
Here is what to put inside your Pet First Aid kit:
#1. Gauze and Self Adhering Bandages and adhesive tape
Gauze and non-adhesive bandages can help to control bleeding and cover your pet’s wounds. Unlike adhesive human bandages, these items will not stick to your pet’s fur.
#2. OTC Antibiotic ointment
Apply to wounds prior to bandaging to protect against bacterial infections.
#3. Blunt-Tip Scissors
Scissors are useful for cutting and applying bandages, as well as removing hair from certain problem areas. A pair of scissors with blunt tips allows for delicate trimming near hard-to-reach areas like the ears and eyes.
#4. Disposable Gloves
To protect yourself and decrease the spread of infection, disposable gloves made of nitrile or latex should be worn when administering first aid.
#5. An Eye Dropper or Syringe
An eye dropper or syringe can be utilized to flush wounds and give oral treatments to your pet.
#6. Cotton Balls or swabs
When cleaning wounds and applying treatments, use a cotton ball or swab.
#7. Wound Disinfectant (Chlorhexidine solution)
A non-stinging antiseptic should be used to clean wounds. This solution is known to kill bacteria and prevent infection. Because it is non-stinging, your dog is less likely to react to its application.
#8. Milk of Magnesia or Activated Charcoal
Milk of Magnesia or activated charcoal can be given to your pet to help absorb toxins. For proper dosage, consult your veterinarian.
#9. Hydrogen Peroxide (3%)
3% Hydrogen Peroxide can be administered to induce vomiting in dogs. Do not use for cats. Check labels before dispensing, as concentrations above 3% can be damaging to your pet’s health.
#10. Styptic Powder or a Styptic Pencil
Blood clotting agents like Styptic Powder and Styptic Pencils can be applied to stop small wounds from bleeding.
#11. Tweezers
Tweezers can be used to remove ticks from your pet’s skin.
#12. An Old Credit Card
Using tweezers to remove a bee stinger may squeeze more venom into your pet’s skin. Instead, get rid of a stinger by gently scraping over the area using an old credit card.
#13. Benadryl
Benadryl can help relieve allergic reactions to bee stings, insect bites, and snake bites. Talk to your veterinarian before giving your pet Benadryl as it can make certain conditions worse, such as glaucoma. Make sure your Benadryl does not contain xylitol.
#14. A Digital Thermometer
If your pet seems ill, you may want to take their temperature before consulting your veterinarian in order to get a more accurate diagnosis. Do this by using a digital pet thermometer and always be sure to use some type of lubricant when taking their temperature.
#15. Saline Solution
You’ll need saline solution to flush out a wound. Never use peroxide to clean a wound, it can actually slow healing.
#16. Emergency Warming blanket
An emergency warming blanket to keep your pet warm if they’ve been injured outside when it’s cold or raining (or if they are in shock).
#17. Flashlight
It’s imperative to have a light source, not just for nighttime, but also for looking closely into ears, nostrils, and your pet’s mouth
#18. Emergency Contacts
Make sure you have your Veterinarian’s number handy. Also, include the phone number of your nearest animal poison control center and 24/7 Vet emergency clinic.
It is recommended that you call your veterinarian before treating an ill or injured pet. Each furry friend is different, and their needs may vary based on medical history. After administering First Aid, you should immediately seek professional care.
Remember to also check your Pet First Aid kit a few times each year. This way, you can
confirm that no products have expired or need to be replaced.
Your Pet AuPair
We speak “dog!”
Offering Dog Walking, Pet Sitting and other Pet Care Services in the Harford County, Maryland areas of Bel Air, Forest Hill, Abingdon, Fallston and Churchville!
Cat Visits, Pet Sitting, Pet Wedding Attendant, and Vet Taxi
Pet Boarding (Our Home) and Overnight Pet Sitting (Your Home)
To get started with our professional, bonded and insured pet care services,
just call 410-989-1533 or click here to send us an email.