Prepping Your Pet’s First Aid Kit

Every pet owner will know that when you have a pet, things can go awry pretty quickly. This is especially true if you are exploring the great outdoors, travelling, camping, hiking, etc.

A pet first aid kit is the first step in being prepared should an animal emergency happen. There are many pre-made kits out there, but you may wish to build your own or add to your pre-made bag based on your needs. Here is a list of some of the supplies you might want to consider:

Necessities

  • Hibitane, Isopropyl Alcohol, Iodine
  • Epsom Salts
  • Sterile eyewash
  • Gauze (4×4)
  • Absorbentdrying material (clean towels or paper towel)
  • Non-stick sterile pads (Telfa)
  • Thick bandage padding (Gamgee)
  • Cast padding (soft roll)
  • Cling wrap
  • Vet wrap
  • Adhesive tape
  • Bandage scissors
  • Tweezers
  • Waterproof booties
  • Disposable gloves
  • Clean container (for cleaning wounds)

Extras

  • Sterile water or saline (for flushing dirty wounds)
  • Sterile syringe and needle (for drawing up flush)
  • Benadryl (ask your veterinarian for dosing)
  • Gravol (ask your veterinarian for dosing)
  • Polysporin
  • Quick stop powder (or cornstarch)Ice/heat packs
  • Thermometer (and lubricant)
  • Extra leashes
  • Blanket
  • Pet carrier (crate)
  • Nail trimmers
  • Tick remover
  • Eyedropper
  • Splint and/or tongue depressors
  • Muzzle (if needed for your pets’ and your safety when addressing an injury)
  • 150ml drinking water packages

Depending on your pets’ species, age, health, and your lifestyle you may need to add a few extra items (such as glucose for diabetics, and vet-prescribed pain relief). If you are unsure of what to add to your kit, your veterinarian can help you customize a first aid kit to meet your pet’s additional medical needs.

“There’s no harm in hoping for the best if you’re prepared for the worst.”

Written by Jessica McKay, RVT