How to Make a Pet First Aid Kit

Whether for everyday mishaps or major disaster care, we should have a basic first aid kit available for both people and pets. There may be times when treating a small injury can not only save discomfort for our animal friends, but stave off future problems or veterinary bills. And, although we hope we will never have to face a big disaster, with hurricanes, floods, earthquakes and more, any pet owners may find themselves unable to reach a veterinarian for a period of time. So, it only makes sense to keep a pet first aid kit on hand.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. A basic kit should include bandages, hydrogen peroxide, sharp scissors, thin latex gloves, antibiotic cream or solutions, syringes, eyewash, tweezers, cotton, gauze, wipes and any extra medication your pet may be on. These should all be kept in a water-proof container along with a first aid book.

2. Even better to keep on hand is an emergency survival kit for your pet(s). Include bowls, blankets, lightsticks or a flashlight, a medical first aid kit, an extra collar and leash, poop bags, can opener, bandages, 50 feet of rope and water-proof containers.

3. Always keep at least a couple of weeks of dried and/or canned food stored for your pet as well as water for at least two weeks. The water supply should be in addition to any water supply you put aside for human consumption.

4. You can also purchase complete first aid and emergency preparedness kits for your pets or for horses. Some sources for these are listed in the Additional Resources below so you have a choice to make or buy your own pet first aid kit.

Resources

• First Aid kits for all different pets & horses
• Pet first aid kits
• Safety products for dogs and cats

[Merriment]

on 1/15/2009 Very good idea. I know there's been a few times we needed first aid for our pets and had to run out to get items. It's so much better to have it on hand... especially during extreme emergencies!

[Elizabethknows]

on 1/12/2009 you know this is something I never even thought of before, a pet care kit, cool 5*

[FrazzledNanny]

on 1/7/2009 Thanks for the information. I have four pets and after reading your article, I definately need a first aid or my pets. 5*****

[Lilfix]

on 1/7/2009 My furbaby doesn't even know he's a dog...grin...I never thought about a pet first aid kit, so thanks for the information... 5*

[bossypants]

on 1/7/2009 As much as we love our beast, we would never have thought of this! Thanks for the idea and the detailed instructions.