Learn what supplies you will need to keep your pet safe in the event of an emergency.

There are many scenarios in which a pet first aid kit will come in hand. The threat of hurricanes, tornados, wildfires and natural disasters mark a few situations in which your pet may become injured. There are also adventurous pet owners who enjoy hiking with their beloved four-legged friend. The result of taking your pet into the great outdoors could result in a snake bite, bee sting, leg injury, or a broken nail. Your pet could get struck by a car, bit by another animal, or suffer a heat stroke. There are limitless scenarios. The important thing is to be prepared.

If you own a pet, you should own a first aid kit.

It is often that humans have a medicine cabinet to turn to in the event of an emergency. We know where to grab gauze, band-aids, antiseptic sprays and ointments. In the event our pet is harmed in any way, what should we expect to find in their first aid kit?

What Items Should Be Included in a Pet First Aid Kit?

The ideal things to do is purchase a human kit and add pet specific items. Here are a few suggestions:

Vetericyn Plus All Animal Wound & Skin Care Treatment is a non-toxic and non-irritating, broad-spectrum antimicrobial spray that kills 99.999% of most single-cell pathogens in 30 seconds—including antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria as well as fungi, viruses and spores. This is a safe and effective solution for caring for cuts, scrapes, abrasions, scratches, hot spots, skin rashes, burns, abscesses, sores, and post-surgical sites.

Andover Healthcare PetFlex Dog, Cat & Small Animal Bandage, to protect your best friend’s cuts, scrapes, and bruises. With superior adhesion, this bandage is sweat and water-resistant, yet is still easy to remove and won’t stick to skin or fur.

PawFlex Universal Joint Disposable Dog Bandage is designed to flex and mold to a dog’s joint, paws, tails and other difficult to cover pooch parts. Stretchy and non-adhesive with a double-catch touch fastener, this bandage fits snugly while also being super-simple to adjust when needed, and the non-adherent wound pad makes applying medication quick and convenient.

Also Include:

• Medications
• Nylon Leash
• Milk of Magnesia to absorb poison should accidental ingestion occur.
• Non-latex gloves
• Gauze & Cotton Swabs
• Cold Pack
• A Foil Emergency Blanket
• Saline Solution
• Scissors with Blunt Ends
• Tweezers & Nail Clippers
• Tounge Depressors
• Muzzle to prevent biting so emergency care can be provided
• Pet First Aid Book
• Ear Cleaning Solution

Are There Classes Available to be Best Prepared for a Pet Emergency?

Yes. If you are an avid outdoors person, or simply someone who wants to be best prepared should an emergent pet situation arise, there are classes available. Pet Tech offers CPR and First Aid training with classes scheduled around the nation. 

PetSaver Training is a premier 8-hour class including CPR techniques, first aid skills, dental and senior care, as well as health and wellness information for dogs and cats. Additionally, the class includes their PetSaver™ 40-page handbook and upon successful completion, each participant receives a certificate and wallet card. 

CPR & First Aid For Your Pets is a 5+ hour class that includes CPR techniques, first aid skills, and healthcare and wellness information for dogs and cats (does not include dental or senior care). This class also includes their PetSaver™ 40-page handbook and upon successful completion, each participant receives a certificate and wallet card.

If these courses seem too intense however you still want to gain knowledge in first aid pet care, the American Red Cross offers a 35-minute online course for $25. You will learn the basics in caring for cats and dogs through a variety of topics – from understanding and checking your pet’s vital signs, to preventative care for cats and dogs. You will also learn how to care for pets in the most critical emergencies – including breathing and cardiac emergencies, wounds, bleeding, and seizures. The American Red Cross also offers a Pet First Aid App for an on-the-go reference guide for pet owners to have on their smartphones. Although there is not much information included on the app, it would help you be ready to deliver fast and effective care for cats and dogs.

You should now have the confidence to be prepared in the event you need to reach for your pet’s first aid kit. If you leave with your pet, take the kit with you it with you. If you are home, know where it is located and make sure it is fully stocked with all the essential items.

Remember to scan your pet’s Pin Paws tag to access important veterinary, vaccination and medical records.

For your family’s safety, keep all medical supplies and medications out of the reach of children and pets.