At Home Pet First Aid Kit

By Caitlyn Gose

As a pet parent, it is important to keep a first aid kit for any pet that you may have. Whether that be a dog, cat, or bird. Just like a first aid kit for your family, your pet will need one too! You never know when an emergency could occur and you want to make sure you are prepared.

Continued in this article is a list of the basic supplies you should keep inside of your pet first aid kit.

Important Phone Numbers and Medical Records

In case of emergency, know the number to the emergency animal clinic in your area. As well as the number to your veterinarian's office and any medical records that your pet has.

You can keep these numbers and records inside of your pet’s first aid kit. That way they are in a known spot, and easy to find quickly if needed.

Gauze

If your pet appears to have a wound, gauze can be used to wrap it up. Ensuring that no dirt or bacteria infects the area. Gauze can also be used as a muzzle if your pet starts biting or tries to bite at their infected area.

Non-Stick Bandages, Towels or Cloth

If your pet is bleeding, the use of non-stick bandages or some sort of cloth can be used to stop bleeding. As well as keeping the infected area clean. Do NOT use human adhesive bandages on pets, as this can cause discomfort and irritation to their fur/skin.

Adhesive Tape or Bandages

In order to keep gauze wrap in place, adhesive tape or bandages can be used to make sure it’s secure.

Milk of Magnesia

Milk of magnesia can be used to absorb poison if ingested. It can also induce vomiting, help with constipation, and reduce acid reflux.

Always contact your vet before inducing vomiting, especially if your pet has gotten into anything poisonous or toxic.

Hydrogen Peroxide (3%)

Hydrogen Peroxide works great to induce vomiting in dogs. Make sure it is only a 3% concentration, as higher ones can irritate your dog’s stomach. The recommended dose is 1 teaspoon for every 5 pounds of your dog’s weight, but never give more than 3 tablespoons (even if your dog is a big guy).

Use a syringe, or something alike, and put it in your dog’s mouth. Watch your dog while they are vomiting, in case anything goes wrong.

Remember to always contact your vet before inducing vomiting!

Digital Thermometer

If you need to check your pet’s temperature, you will need a specific thermometer. The temperature scale on a regular thermometer doesn’t go high enough for pets.

Your pet’s temperature must also be taken rectally, not from the mouth.

Eye Dropper/Syringe

Having an eye dropper or syringe can be useful when giving medication orally and flushing wounds.

Muzzle

 To cover your pet’s head and keep them from biting, nibbling, or harming themselves/others, have a muzzle in your pet’s first aid kit. If you don’t have a muzzle you can use rope, soft cloth, or a small towel to gently keep your pet’s mouth closed.

If your pet is vomiting, DO NOT muzzle it!

Leash

Keep a leash handy to transport your pet from one place to another.

Stretcher/Floor Mat

If your pet is unable to stand or walk on its own, a stretcher (or a blanket if need be) is important to transport your pet from one place to another without causing further injury.

Conclusion

It is so important to have a first aid kit ready for your pet(s) at all times. You never know when an emergency will come up, and they usually occur at the most unexpected times. Keeping your pet safe and healthy should be your #1 priority as a pet parent!

If you are creating your own pet first aid kit, then the items included in this list will ensure that you have all the basic necessities.

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Caitlyn is a painter, bookworm, and freelance writer from Southwest Michigan. She comes to Adeo Pets with the desire to teach others about pet safety and health. She has a deep love for animals and wants pet parents to have all the answers they are looking for! Check out her work at www.cgosecopywrite.com.