First Aid Bag

"Somebody Get The First Aid Kit!"

There is no doubt that our pets are one of the family and rightfully, should have a first aid bag of their own in case of an emergency. A well appointed pet first aid kit will allow you to more effectively deal with medical emergencies that may arise for the critters that may run into trouble – and basic life saving procedures may help extend the life of your pet while getting them proper veterinary care.

Keep your pet first aid kit well stocked with up-to-date supplies and keep it next to our family first aid kit so there is no doubt it’s location when it is needed. This basic pet first aid kit list is a foundation for what you may need for basic emergency care but, if your pet has special needs, like prescriptions or insulin, keep that well stocked in the kit as well.

Pet First Aid Kit Check List:

1. Critical Phone Numbers are your pet’s veterinarian, an emergency veterinary clinic near your home and the Animal Poison Control Center: 1-888-4ANI-HELP (888-426-4435)
2. Gauze used for wound care or muzzling an injured animal. Remember, instinctively, animals bite when they are wounded.
3. Nonstick bandages (like 4X4s), towels and strips of clean cloth. These items may help protect a wound.
4. Adhesive tape for bandages. Don’t use adhesive bandages (i.e. Band-Aids) on pets.
5. Milk of Magnesia and activated charcoal to absorb any ingested poison. If your pet has ingested an unknown or known substance, call the poison control center BEFORE inducing.
6. Hydrogen Peroxide (3%) to induce vomiting. Again, don’t induce vomiting until you have called the poison control center.
7. Pet “Fever” Thermometer. A pet’s temperature must be taken rectally.
8. Large syringe without needle. This will help aid in giving your pet oral medication OR flush out a wound.
9. Muzzle. If your pet has a muzzle, keep it in the pet first aid kit in case of emergency. Use a gauze bandage if you do not have a muzzle.
10. Leash.
11. Stretcher. A board, floor mat or blanket will do.

Put all of these items in easy identifiable bag or box and clearly label it “Pet First Aid Bag” or “Pet First Aid Kit”. Remember, once first aid is administered to your pet, proper veterinary care should be your next goal.