What’s In Your Dog’s First-Aid Kit?
Yep, accidents happen. As much as we try, not all accidents are avoidable. Just as we are there for our human children when they fall and skin a knee, our fur kids depend on us to keep them safe and comfortable too! The best way to keep all emergencies manageable is by following the old scouting motto: Be prepared. That means having a well-stocked first-aid kit on hand at all times. Now that hurricane season is here I think it is especially important to follow these guidelines.
Don’t have one? Pick up a waterproof plastic box, and stock it with these essentials:
1. Vital Stats — Write down your dog’s name, breed, and date of birth; any medical conditions and allergies he has; and any medications he’s taking (including doses). If he’s been micro-chipped, jot down the number. Also include your home address and phone number; your vet’s name and phone number; and your emergency vet clinic’s phone number. Include this information in your kit. It is a good idea to put it in a zip lock bag.
I have our dog Guinness’ information in this handy book. Not only is it good in an emergency kit. It helps when he has to be boarded or if we travel. These booklets are airline approved.
2. Important Records — Make photocopies of important health records, including vaccinations, and seal them in a plastic bag inside your kit.
3. Basic Supplies — Fill the rest of your kit with alcohol wipes, gauze, cotton balls, nonstick bandages, hydrogen peroxide, scissors, adhesive tape, cotton swabs, tweezers, an eyedropper, hand sanitizer or soap, a digital thermometer, a pair of latex gloves, and a tube of both topical first-aid cream and antibiotic ointment.
A wide range of first aid kits are available at Brown Dog Treasures. There are specialized kits for small dogs, large dogs, active dogs, field kits for hunting dogs as well as a feline kit for our beloved kitties!
Also, look into taking a pet first-aid class. After all, learning how to handle accidents is the best way to help your dog stay safe.
Here are some resources:
- American Red Cross of Greater NY
- Long Island Rescue Services
- Austin Pets First Aid
- Canine First Aid
- American Veterinary Medical Association
- Canine First Aid Training
While it is NEVER a good idea to leave your dog in a car unattended, it is never more important than during the blistering heat of mid summer. Some owners think it will be safe if they leave the car running with the air conditioner on. Beside the fact that this is no longer environmentally responsible and expensive to say the least considering the current gas prices, it is SUPER dangerous.