Creating A Pet First-Aid Kit

April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month! We truly hope that none of you ever find yourselves in a situation where you have to give your pet first aid. However, accidents can and do happen. Having both the knowledge and the gear you need to stabilize your pet could make all the difference in an emergency! A Bend, OR vet discusses building a great first aid kit below.

First-Aid Kit

You may want to start with a regular first-aid kit. Then, you can add things to customize it for your furry friend. Some of the things you may want to include are non-stick gauze, tweezers, styptic powder, gloves, towels, a thermometer, thermal blanket, syringes, hydrogen peroxide, and activated charcoal. Some of what you would add will depend on what kind of pet you have. If you have a dog, you may need to include a muzzle.

Storage

First-aid kits are good to have on the go. Ideally, you’ll want to keep one in your pet’s travel bag, so it’s ready to grab if you need to travel or evacuate. You may also want to keep one in your car. Add some food and treats, dishes, and a spare leash and collar, and a few blankets.

Medication

If your furry friend has to take medications, you’ll want to include some of this in the kit as well. If your dog or cat is diabetic, include some insulin. Be sure to check expiration dates regularly!

Food and Water

It’s not a bad idea to keep some water with the kit. This can help with travel, emergency evacuations, or for rehydration. It will also come in handy if you need to wash a wound.

Medical Records

Don’t forget to include your pet’s medical records! This is also very important for a veterinarian to know, especially if you go to an emergency clinic that isn’t your usual one. Include vaccination records, registration, and information on any medications or medical conditions your pet has.

Brochures

Buy or print some pet first-aid brochures, and keep these in the kit. You may want to download some apps as well. We also recommend keeping your vet’s number in the kit and in your phone contacts, along with the number to your nearest emergency clinic and the pet poison helpline. As your Bend, OR animal clinic, we’re here for you. Call us anytime!