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