Almost every home, car, office, and job site has a first aid kit and attendant to attend the needs of the humans. Dog shows and trials have veterinarian hospitals listed for emergencies. But what about the pet which ends up hurt at home, in the car, or at the park? Ambulances and first aid attendants take care of our human needs until we can reach proper medical care. But who takes care of our pets?
We as conscientious owners can be somewhat prepared to help our pet by at least having a first aid kit prepared specifically for pet needs. Another way we can help our pet is by taking a pet First Aid course. Many local veterinarians offer First Aid courses. Some dog clubs also arrange for veterinarians to come teach classes to the group. Also, check with the local SPCA as some branches offer courses and are heavily involved in the community.
Taking a First Aid course will give you some confidence when assessing the medical situation involving your pet. You will also learn some basic skills to use at home for small emergencies and how to prepare yourself and your pet to enable you to transport it to a veterinary hospital in the event of a serious situation. Taking a First Aid course is never a substitute for professional care. If you ever have doubt about a pets health or injury you should never hesitate to contact a professional.
Here is a list of some articles that should be included in a First Aid Kit for your pet. They should be kept in a handy sealed container in the home or in the car. Don’t forget to take it with you when traveling.
Gauze pads (based on the size of your dog)
Gauze rolls -not only to bandage but to possibly muzzle your dog
Cotton balls
Q-tips
Blunt nose scissors -to cut away long hair and tape
Tweezers
Thermometer
Adhesive tape -athletic type is the best
Sterile water
Alcohol (99% solution)
Hibitane soap (4% solution)
Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) -to induce vomiting or cleaning wounds
An old sock -to protect bandaged feet
Cohesive flexible bandage -great for wrapping a wound and not having it pull hair like adhesive bandages
Veterinary ointment for small wounds and burns
Eye drops or ointment
Ear cleanser and dryer
Spoon or syringe for administering fluids
Towel or blanket -serves many purposes: controlling temperature, transporting the pet, controlling the pet
Zip lock bags -to contain urine or fecal matter -to keep bleeding paws from staining your clothes, etc.
Quarters
Your veterinarians name and phone number written down on a sheet with
Your name and your dog’s name written down as well. Any medications your dog usually takes.
Other useful items to include are Maalox, Kaopectate, Pepto-Bismal and buffered aspirin. Never administer without first consulting with your veterinarian for the dosage and proper usage based on the needs and size of your dog.
Watch the expiry dates and replace when necessary for optimum effect of the medicines. And most importantly, remember self diagnosis is your worst doctor. When in doubt always consult with your local veterinarian.








