We all are aware of the important things to have in our first aid kit for ourselves, but what about for our dogs? They are a part of the family and oftentimes go on adventures with us. Whether it is hiking, camping, the beach, or even just a trip to the dog park, injuries can happen anywhere at any time. We’re going to help you create a dog first aid kit to keep in your car, backpack, home, or wherever it is easily accessible for you and your dog. All of these items can be found at your local pharmacy. 

Essential Items for Your Dog’s First Aid Kit

Bottled Water

Often overlooked, bottled water is crucial. It's useful in situations of dehydration, heat exhaustion, wound care, and cleaning. Always have access to clean water in an emergency. Don’t forget to pack a water bowl too!

Gauze Pads and Roll

• Absorbent Gauze Pads: Use these to cover or clean wounds.
• Gauze Roll: Ideal for bandaging an injury or wound.

Bandage Materials

• Vet Wrap or Self-Adhesive Wrap: This is a great outer bandage layer. Be careful not to apply it too tightly, as it can cut off circulation.
• Adhesive Medical Tape: Used to secure bandages and make makeshift band-aids.

Cleaning Supplies

• Cotton Balls or Swabs: For cleaning wounds and applying medications. Cotton balls can also serve as ear plugs in a pinch.
• Fresh 3% Hydrogen Peroxide: Can induce vomiting (only under veterinary guidance) and clean wounds.
• Liquid Dishwashing Detergent (non-concentrated Dawn): To wash hands and bathe your pet if they get into something harmful.
• Alcohol Wipes: To keep tools and hands clean and sanitary.

Tools and Equipment

• Disposable Gloves: To keep your hands clean and prevent bacteria from contaminating wounds.
• Scissors with Blunt End (Bandage Scissors): For cutting tape, bandages, and potentially dangerous tangles.
• Tweezers: To remove debris from wounds. They can also be used to remove visible objects from your pet’s throat if choking.
• Oral Syringe or Turkey Baster: For administering medications, water, or peroxide, and flushing wounds.
• Towels: Useful for drying your pet, stopping bleeding, keeping your pet warm, or creating a makeshift sling.
• Small Flashlight: Handy for seeing in the dark or examining injuries more clearly.

Medications and Treatments

• Over-the-Counter Antibiotic Ointment: Apply Neosporin or Triple Antibiotic Cream to cuts or wounds before bandaging.
• Emergency Ice Pack: To reduce swelling and pain.
• Styptic Powder (ClotIt Powder): To stop bleeding, especially from broken toenails. Flour or cornstarch can be used in a pinch.
• Saline Eye Solution: For flushing out your dog's eyes if exposed to debris or toxins.
• Artificial Tear Gel: To protect your pet’s eyes, especially in dry climates.
• Chlorhexidine/Iodine Solution (Diluted): For cleaning and flushing wounds to prevent infection.

Extras

• Dog Food: Keep some of your dog's food on hand to prevent hunger and use as a distraction.
• Medications: Have extra doses of any medications your pet takes regularly.
• Veterinarian Contact Information: Keep a list of phone numbers, clinic names, and addresses of your vet and local emergency clinics.

Maintaining Your First Aid Kit

Store all these items in a first aid kit bag or box. Regularly check expiration dates and the quality of products to ensure your kit is always stocked with fresh supplies.

Emergency Situations

In any instance where your pet loses consciousness, stops breathing, ingests a toxin or poison, or is having a life-threatening emergency, contact an emergency veterinary service or pet poison control immediately and take your pet to the closest clinic.

By being prepared with a well-stocked first aid kit, you can ensure your dog stays safe and healthy, ready for all the adventures you have together!