How to Put Together a Dog First Aid Kit

Putting together a first aid kit for your dog can save you money in the long run and may even save your dog's life.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Hydrogen peroxide
• Benadryl
• Ear syringe
• Eye wash
• Ear cleaner
• Nail clippers
• Gauze bandage and sterile pads
• Sanitary napkins
• Antibiotic ointment
• Disinfectant for cuts and wounds
• Small sharp scissors for trimming hair from cuts
• Buffered aspirin (not ibuprofen.)
• Peptobismol
• Activated charcoal
• Gas-Ex
• Pedialyte or similar product
• Phone numbers for poison control and emergency vet

1. Get a plastic container with a lid for your dog's first aid kit and write the emergency vet and poison control numbers in Magic Marker on the lid.
   When the box is filled, keep it in a safe, easily accessible location.
2. Always consult your vet about giving human medications to dogs, especially if your dog is already on medication or supplements. The listed meds are generally considered safe for dogs. If your dog has a severe reaction to a bee or insect sting, Benadryl can be a lifesaver. Gas-Ex can be administered to a bloating dog (if you have a bloat-prone breed) on the way to the vet. Peptobismol and Pedialyte can sooth upset tummies and rehydrate a dog who has diarrhea or is vomiting.
3. If you suspect your dog has ingested poison, ALWAYS call the poison control hotline or your vet before administering anything! Some poisons must be vomited up quickly and hydrogen peroxide will make your dog hork in a hurry. Some poisons may cause more damage if they are vomited up and activated charcoal can absorb them in the digestive system.
4. The ear syringe can be used to administer liquid medications, as well as being handy for its intended purpose.
5. Keep routine maintenance things like ear cleaner and nail clippers in your emergency kit. They'll be easier to keep track of.
6. Sanitary napkins can be put over a very deep cut or one that is bleeding profusely. Secure it with gauze wrap for the trip to the vet.

Tips & Warnings

• A veterinarian should always be the first person you consult if your dog is injured or sick--don't rely only on the internet for veterinary advice.
• Some people keep a credit card set aside for vet emergencies. This would also be a handy thing to keep in your first aid kit.
• Your vet knows your dog. Ask him or her for any other recommendations for your first aid kit.
• Periodically check the expiration dates on medications and ointments in your kit and replace as necessary.