Preparing two dog first aid kits is a good idea so you are better equipped to handle minor pet injuries both at home and when you are traveling with your dog. Your can use a plastic bin or box for your at-home kit.
Dog First Aid Kit Contents
- Sterile gauze pads and bandages
- Self-Activating ice pack & hot pack
It's also a good idea to keep copies of your dog's veterinary documents, veterinary and animal hospital telephone numbers, as well as a book on pet first aid in your kit. Next, everyone in your family should familiarize themselves with the items in the kit. What item is used and when, etc. Also, be sure everyone understands where your dog's first aid kit will be kept in your home and knows to always restock any supplies used from it, so your kit is always complete.
Next, prepare a second first aid kit for your dog to keep in your car. This way you will have on-hand the emergency supplies needed to handle crisis situations facing your dog when you are not at home. You can buy a pre-made pet first aid kit or prepare one with the same items as above. Keep the items stored in a large ziplock freezer bag or tote bag. Also place in the trunk of your car an extra leash, blanket, splint, and muzzle.
Another good investment in your dog's health and safety would be to take a pet first aid course. You can check with your local Red Cross, pet stores, or even take a course online. Learning pet first aid will help you recognize and respond to your dog's medical emergencies until proper veterinary care can be given. A good course will cover information on identifying what is normal for your dog, handling sudden illness, minor injuries, wounds and bleeding, burns, poisoning, disaster preparation, and CPR for your dog.
Having two separate, well-stocked dog first aid kits (one for home use and one for your car) will offer you peace of mind that you are better prepared to administer help to your dog when needed which could prevent a serious situation from becoming life-threatening. Our dogs are part of our family. They are our trusted friends and protectors. Knowing the right steps to take when your dog is injured could possibly save his life.
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