How to Make a First Aid Kit For Dogs
Every dog owner needs an emergency first aid kit for their dog and while there are many pre-assembled kits available, making your own will ensure your kit contains everything you need.
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes and a pre-assembled kit that may work well for one dog, may be inadequate for another. Making your own is the perfect solution-especially in multi dog households.
Along with the following items, be sure to include your pet’s medications and supplements (or at minimum a list of them with dosage requirements). During an emergency, you will have the information at your fingertips, in case you’re not at your usual vet’s office.
First, pick out a sturdy box that is easy to carry and waterproof. Got your case? Awesome! Now you can fill it up with the basic items you’ll need for your first aid kit for dogs!
- A Dog First Aid Book that contains CPR instructions
- Emergency contact numbers for your vet
- Address for the emergency pet hospital and directions to get there
- Copies of your dog’s shot records.
- Slant end tweezers.
- Bandage scissors
- Toenail trimmer
- Gloves
- Bulb syringe, to flush wounds
- Eye dropper, to flush wounds or administer fluid by mouth
- Measuring spoons for medicines and a pill cutter
- Rectal thermometer
- Flashlight
- Matches, to disinfect
- Blanket
- Towels
- Wash clothes/baby wipes
- Ice packs
- Heat packs
- Cotton balls
- Gauze pads of various sizes
- Self-sticking bandage or Vet Wrap (the kind that doesn’t stick to fur)
- Telfa pads in various sizes
- First Aid Tape – 1-inch paper tape that tears easily
- Conforming bandage wrap (Vet wrap)
- Disinfectant 28. Wound spray
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Antibacterial wipes
- Saline solution
- Sterile eye wash
- Ear wash
- Skin and paw cream
- Petroleum jelly
- Quick Clot to stop bleeding
- Antihistamine – such as Benadryl, consult your vet for the proper dosage
- Pain reliever – consult with your vet
- A muzzle and a large triangular cloth to use as an extra muzzle.
- Extra leash
- Dog food
- Water – for cleaning wounds and drinking
- Tick remover tool
- Ear wash
- Antibacterial cream
- Any specialized items, for diabetic dogs, etc.
- Tourniquet
- Snake bite kit
You can be even more prepared by taking a first aid for dogs class. Contact your local Red Cross or vet for information.
