Dogs are our best friends, and we want to do everything we can to keep them safe and healthy. That’s why it’s essential to have all the dog gear you need, including a first aid kit for dogs, on hand in case of an emergency while traveling in your adventure van. This blog post will discuss what you should include in your dog’s first aid kit and how to use the supplies correctly. We’ll also provide some resources for further information on this topic. Keep your furry friend safe with a well-stocked first aid kit!
What should you include in a first aid kit for dogs? Many items, such as gauze, bandages, scissors, and tweezers, will be the same as what you would include in a human first aid kit. You’ll also want to add supplies specifically for dogs, such as an ear cleansing solution and rectal thermometer.
Supplies for a Dog First Aid Kit
You probably have some of these supplies in your human first aid kit already, you can use them. I would also make sure to have supplies, like your dog’s prescription medication and dog-specific creams and ointments, in a separate bag.
Supplies for a dog first aid kit:
- Gauze rolls
- Adhesive tape
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Cotton balls or swabs
- Eye wash solution
- Hydrogen peroxide (to induce vomiting – do not give without vet approval)
- Sterile non-latex gloves
- Sterile saline solution (for flushing wounds)
- Rectal thermometer
- Ear cleansing solution
- Antibiotic ointment
- Milk of Magnesia (check with vet for dosage size)
- Activated Charcoal
- Anti-inflammatory medication (do not give without vet approval)
- Vet wrap or ace bandage
- Splints
- Pet first aid book or app
As you can see, there are many items that you’ll need to include in your dog’s first aid kit. Pack everything securely in a bag or box, so it is easily accessible in an emergency. You may also consider adding a pet first aid book or app to your kit for reference.
How to Use a Dog First Aid Kit
Now that you know what to include in your dog’s first aid kit, let’s discuss how to use the supplies correctly. We’ll go over some common accidents and injuries that may occur, and how to treat them with the items in your first aid kit.
If your dog has a minor cut or scrape, clean the wound with sterile saline solution or warm water. Apply pressure if the bleeding is constant, using gauze or a clean cloth. If the bleeding is heavy, seek veterinary care immediately.
If your dog has an ear infection, gently use the ear cleansing solution to clean their ears. Do not insert anything into their ear canal. Seek immediate veterinary care if the infection does not improve.
If your dog has an eye injury, flush the area with sterile saline solution or warm water. Do not attempt to remove any objects stuck in their eye. Seek vet care immediately.
If your dog has a broken bone, do not try to move them unless it is absolutely necessary. If you must move them, use a stretcher or blanket to support their body. Seek veterinary care immediately.
When to Go to the Vet After an Accident or Injury Occurs
Even if you have a well-stocked doggy first aid kit and know how to use it correctly, there will be times when you need to take your dog to the vet after an accident or injury. If your dog is bleeding heavily, has a broken bone, or has difficulty breathing, seek veterinary care immediately. Also, if you are unsure whether your dog needs to see the vet, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and take them in for an evaluation.
Resources for Further Information on First Aid Kits for Dogs
If you want to learn more about first aid kits for dogs, we have included some resources below.
- Fetch by WebMD: How to Create a Pet Emergency Kit
- PetMD: 10 Things You Need in Your Pet First Aid Kit
American Red Cross: Pet First Aid App
You can download this app from the American Red Cross.
