Everything You Need For Your Dog's First Aid
Every dog owner should have a first aid kit for their pet, both to treat minor injuries and as a first step before seeking veterinary care. I have one for the car, one for the house, and one for the Emergency Prep Kit. There are a lot of good grab-and-go pet first aid kits on the market, and some are more cost effective than creating your own. But if you choose to create your own, or add to a purchased kit, here's what your kit should include.
Absorbent gauze pads
Self-adhering bandages for wrapping a paw or leg
Cotton balls or swabs for cleaning up cuts or wounds
Fresh 3% hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting (always check with a veterinarian or animal poison control expert before giving to your pet)
Ice pack to reduce swelling
Disposable gloves to keep you and your dog protected from bacteria
Scissors with blunt end for cutting gauze or bandages
Tweezers for picking out splinters, ticks, or stings from your dog
OTC antibiotic ointment to treat cuts and sores
Oral syringe to flush out wounds
Alcohol wipes
Styptic powder to stop a minor cut or nail tear from bleeding ( you can also use cornstarch )
Saline eye solution to rise debris from the eye
Artificial tear gel to reduce irritation in an inflamed eye
Digital thermometer (temperature must be taken rectally). A normal temperature for a dog is between 101 and 102.5 F
Soft muzzle in case your pup becomes frantic or panics when hurt
Small flashlight
Comfy Cone to keep them from chewy or scratching irritated or infected areas.
Activated charcoal can be used to absorb and counteract poison but check with your veterinarian first on the correct dose for your pet.
Medical kit for you and your dog
Pet First Aid Kit
