What should I have in my pet first aid kit?

This is by far the most common question I get as a pet first aid instructor. As your pet’s guardian, you need to be sure and have basic first aid supplies for all the pets in your household. Taking the time to put together a well provisioned kit is one of the keys to being prepared in the event of an emergency. Depending on your lifestyle and whether it is a home kit you’re making or one to take traveling, the items you may need will vary. A dog that is active at home, on walks, and trips to the dog park will have different needs from the hunting companion that takes week-long trips out to the bush, crashing through alders and chasing prey. Keep in mind that many of the first aid items in your own kit can be used in your dog’s kit, as well.

Digital thermometer

Gauze pads, various sizes

Emergency blanket

Scissors, tweezers

Plastic syringe, eye dropper

Disposable gloves, hand sanitizer

2″ vet wrap, rolled gauze various sizes

Staple gun, tissue glue, emt gel

Non adhesive pads

Cold pack and hot pack

Hydrogen peroxide, Benadryl

Hemostats, needle nose pliers

Prescribed medications

50% Dextrose solution for hypoglycemia

Extra leash, muzzle

Plastic baggies

List of important numbers

Record of vital signs

Photo of your dog, copy of vax records for travel kits

Prevention and being prepared are just 2 of the many topics we cover in the Dogsafe Canine First Aid 101 class. Our classes are comprehensive and teach you the skills you need to respond to most any pet emergency until veterinary care is available. Check our schedule for the latest classes offered.

First aid care is not a substitute for veterinary care, but it may save your pet’s life until they receive veterinary treatment.