Friday, April 18, 2014

DIY Pet First Aid Kit



You probably have a first aid kit for the humans in your household so why not have one for your furry family member? Seriously, it's important.

Whether you're going on a road trip or just taking a trip to the beach, it's important to be ready for emergencies. My advice? Buy a little extra and make two; one can stay at home and the other (maybe a bit smaller) can be stashed away in your trunk.

Remember, your first aid supplies don't have to be placed in anything special, an old backpack or small lunch box will do...however, waterproof is definitely preferable (hint hint: Ziploc bag).

Here's a list of the basics needed* for a doggy first aid kit:
  • Dog first aid book (The First Aid Companion for Dogs and Cats is a pretty good one, even if it is a bit large.)
  • Disposable gloves (latex or non-latex)
  • Emergency documents/contact numbers (vet info, closest animal hospital, poison control number, emergency family contact info, copy of pet medical records and registration).
  • Tweezers (flat slant clamp & tick removal tweezers)
  • Scissors (dull ended)
  • Cotton Balls
  • Gauze pad, squares and roll (PawFlex bandages are great!)
  • Disinfectant (such as Hibitane)
  • Wound Spray - Simply spray it on to help clean and heal hot spots, bites, scratches, cuts, burns, ulcered skin and more. (such as Vetericyn)
  • Saline solution (fyi - contact solution can work too, in a real emergency)
  • Antihistamine - May be used to calm itchiness, swelling, and hives caused by bee stings or insect bites. (ask your vet for dosage based on your dogs size)
  • Hydrogen Peroxide - while not recommended for wounds, it can be used to induce vomiting in case of accidental ingestion.
  • Bulb syringe or small Turkey Baster - to flush wounds or eyes or for administering medicine.
  • Antibacterial wipes or Skin soap (dish soap is also helpful in removing oil & such from dog fur)
  • Skin & Paw Cream
  • Rectal thermometer (a dog's average temperature is 101°F)
  • Petroleum Jelly (when using the above...it's just considerate)
  • Muzzle (fitted to your dog; so they don't hurt themselves or others)
  • Sugar packets - For diabetic emergencies
  • Small container of flour or cornstarch - To stop bleeding of nails that have been broken or cut to the quick.
  • Dry dog food
  • Dog treats and rawhide bones
  • Blanket - Can be an old one you have laying around the house or foil emergency blanket
  • Ice pack
  • Pen light or flashlight
  • Splints or tongue depressor
  • Extra dog tag (with your contact info)
  • Extra leash & harness
  • Prescribed medicine
  • Bach's Rescue Remedy - provides natural stress relief and works wonders for dogs that have been through a traumatic situation.

*feel free to add anything that may be specific to your dogs needs. And remember, never give your dog any human drugs or prescriptions without talking to vet first.

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