Your dog is naturally curious. He loves to run jump and explore. While he’s frolicking and living his best doggy life, accidents can happen. The best thing you can do is to prepare yourself for any bumps, abrasions, or other minor injuries before they occur. It’s a good idea to put together and maintain a pet first aid kit. This way, you know you have supplies on hand if and when your dog needs them.
When Do You Need A Dog First Aid Kit?
Prepping for anything is always a good idea when your dog’s involved. Gathering up emergency essentials so you have them on hand can help when you’re faced with a bad situation, so you can care for your dog straight away. That said, there are some times when a first aid kit could be especially essential.
As A Precaution, Make A Dog First Aid Kit To Keep At Home
When you’re stocking your own medicine cabinet, take the time to set up a dog first aid kit as well. Whether you designate a separate area to keep your pet’s first aid necessities, or you add it to your own kit, it’s important to have all the materials you might need on hand. Here’s what you should include in your everyday, at-home first aid kit to support your pet:
- Find A FIrst Aid Manual: Do you know how to give your dog the Heimlich if he came over to you choking? If not, you’re not alone. Many pet parents don’t know emergency procedures that could sometimes be essential for your pet’s safety. That’s exactly why it’s a good idea to invest in a pet-specific first aid manual. Look for one that includes information on how to handle emergency situations that include broken bones, choking, seizures, and more.
- Get Plenty Of Bandages: Whether you need a little bandaid or a whole gauze wrap, stock your pet first aid kit with a variety of bandages ‘just in case.’ It’s also wise to include pet-safe antibacterial cream you can apply to any scratches or cuts.
- A Thermometer’s A Staple: This one’s essential because if your dog has a fever, it can be a serious cause for concern. Make sure you’ve got one in your first aid kit that’s designated for the dog. You don’t want to accidentally use it yourself after it’s been inserted in Fido’s rectum. No thanks!
- Hydrogen Peroxide’s A Good Idea: It can be used to clean wounds, but it’s also a helpful ingredient to have on hand if your pet ingested something harmful. With instruction from your Vet, it can be used to help induce vomiting to minimize harm from toxic food.
- Cotton Balls And Cotton Swabs Are Multipurpose: They’re a great addition to any first aid kit but can be especially helpful for your pet. Use them to clean out his eyes, ears, and injuries.
- Add Eye Wash: Look for a dog-friendly eye rinse to have on hand. You never know when your dog will be so compelled to smell something, he sticks his face into something harmful to his eyes. Be prepared by adding an eye rinse to your pet first aid kit.
Add In Extra Items When You’re Leaving Your Pet With A Sitter
If you’re headed out of town and can’t bring your four-legged friend along for the ride, there are some additional items you should consider adding to your dog’s first aid kit to keep him safe while you’re away. Here are some things to consider packing when he’s headed to the pet sitter:
