Dog First Aid Kit, Do You Have One?

A first aid kit for your dog is a necessity for every owner. You never know when Fido is going to get himself into trouble. It should always be accessible and house versatile supplies that will be needed in a multiple of circumstances. You can buy premade first aid kits online or in pet stores but making your own is cheaper and more efficient. If you’re more active and take your dog out with you boating, camping, or whatever you should make extra first aid kits too keep in your recreational vehicles as well.

Why Bother??

The purpose for your dog first aid kit is to keep supplies you need in case of injury handy so that you can focus on getting your dog ready for safe transport to a vet for medial care. These supplies should be separate from your everyday use supplies. It is important to periodically go through your first aid kit to make sure your supplies are full and not expired. There is nothing worse than being unprepared in a medical emergency.

We have so many animals that our main “dog” first aid kit has become a first aid cupboard, which is ok as long as you can access it and what you need is easily moved to where it’s needed. The receptacle for your dog first aid kit doesn’t have to be anything fancy, you can make it out of a toolbox, tacklebox, or crafting box. There are many portable options out there.

Basic Dog First Aid Kit Supplies

These are the basic items that your kit should include.

• Vet and Emergency Vet Information
• Thermometer
• Muzzle
• Flashlight
• Watch
• Blunt Ended Scissors
• Tweezers
• Sterile Gauze Pads
• Vet Wrap or another self-adhesive bandage
• Gauze Rolls
• Medical Tape
• 3% hydrogen peroxide
• Oral Syringe
• Antibacterial ointment
• Saline or Contact Solution

First Aid Kit Extras

• Stethoscope
• Towels
• Extra Leash and Collar
• Battery-Powered Beard Trimmer
• Cotton Balls or Swabs
• Tourniquet
• Blood Stop Powder

You’re A Tool Too!

The other weapon you have in a medical emergency is you. It is important for you to remain calm, not just for yourself, but for your dog too. Your knowledge of how to handle an emergency situation is can honestly be the deciding factor in the outcome. I strongly suggest taking a first aid course through the Red Cross or other online training. Your local SPCA and Humane Societies offer courses periodically as well.

A dog first aid kit is an important tool in your arsenal against loosing your pet. Quick action sometimes makes the difference between life and death. Keeping your tools in good working order and easily accessible will save you time, stress, and hopefully, grief in the long run.