- Pet first aid kits generally contain items that can provide first aid for any animal injury. Broken legs, cut paws, tick removal and poisoning are a few of the pet-related emergencies that would require your quick action. You will be ready if you have a first aid kit handy. In addition, you'll be able to immediately treat minor injuries and stabilize your animal in an emergency with basic first aid supplies.
- Pet first aid kits can be purchased already assembled. Ready-made kits are available and range in price from $15 for a basic first aid kit to as much as $30 for a more complex kit. Some people choose to assemble the contents of their own kit. Pet first aid kits are generally the same for cats and dogs. The major difference is that a muzzle can be included for your dog and a towel for restraining your cat.
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Typical pet first aid kits include a variety of items for first aid for your animal. It's important to include updated medical records for your pet, vet information, emergency vet phone numbers, and a poison control phone number. In an emergency, you do not want to guess the weight of your dog, when was the last vet checkup, or even the phone number for the vet. Many pet owners also include a pet first aid guide. These are available at bookstores for a nominal amount.
Start with a waterproof container (storage bin), a fishing tackle box, or container with a handle. By including the following, you will be able to deal with most pet emergencies such as broken bones, poisoning, eye injuries, insect bites and various other injuries as they happen:
Scissors
Forceps
Nonstick gauze pads
Rolled gauze
First aid tape
Self adhesive first aid tape
Antiseptic skin wash
Saline eye wash
Ace bandage
Liquid styptic
Triple antibiotic ointment
Hydrogen peroxide
Green soap wipes
Iodine
Hand wipes
Surgical gloves
Oral feeding syringe
Muzzle
Towel -
Pet owners should check their own (human) first aid kits once a year as well as the contents of their pet first aid kits, too. Check packaging to make sure no sealed items have been exposed to the air. In addition, make sure no topical ointments, medications, or other items in the kit have expired.
It's recommended that you check both first aid kits every year when you check your fire alarm batteries. That way you won't forget. Don't forget to update your animal's medical information with every vet visit and remember to include this information in your pet first aid kit. -
Cats and dogs cannot typically handle being treated with human oral medications. Never give your pet any over-the-counter medications unless specifically instructed by your veterinarian. Emergency medical treatment should be undertaken with the consultation of a trained animal-care specialist.
The purpose of your pet first aid kit is to stabilize your animal in an emergency for further treatment by a veterinarian. Treatment at home should never replace the assessment and treatment by a trained professional in an animal hospital.
