Most pet emergencies call for a veterinarian, not a home fix. Still, a well-stocked first aid kit can help you handle small problems, protect an injury and keep a pet comfortable on the way to care. Summer, with its long walks, yard projects and outings, is a good time to assemble one for the house and another for the car.
Start with information
The most important items in a pet first aid kit are not bandages. They are phone numbers and records. Keep a card or a sealed bag in the kit with:
- Your veterinarian’s phone number and address.
- The nearest 24-hour emergency animal hospital.
- An animal poison control service, such as the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center or Pet Poison Helpline. Fees may apply, so check their websites.
- A copy of your pet’s vaccination records, medication list and microchip number.
- A recent photo of each pet.
Save the same numbers in your phone so you are never searching for them in a stressful moment.
Basic supplies
Many veterinary and animal welfare organizations suggest a list along these lines:
- Gauze pads and rolled gauze.
- Self-adhesive bandage wrap made for pets, which sticks to itself but not to fur.
- Adhesive medical tape.
- Blunt-tipped scissors.
- Fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool.
- Saline solution for flushing eyes or wounds.
- Disposable gloves.
- A digital thermometer and lubricant, if your vet has shown you how to use one.
- A clean towel and a small blanket.
- A soft muzzle sized for your dog, or a towel to help gently restrain a cat.
- An extra leash and a collapsible water bowl.
- A flashlight with fresh batteries.
Items to ask your veterinarian about
Some items should be added only with guidance from your veterinarian. Hydrogen peroxide, for example, is sometimes used to induce vomiting in dogs, but only when a veterinarian directs it, because it is not appropriate for every situation and is not recommended for cats. Antiseptic wipes, ointments and any medications should be pet-safe and approved by your vet. Never add human pain relievers to a pet kit, since many are toxic to pets.
If your pet takes daily medication, keep a few days’ supply in the kit, rotating it so it does not expire.
Learn the basics
A kit is most useful when you know how to use it. Ask your veterinarian to show you how to check your pet’s gums, take a pulse, apply a simple bandage and handle your pet safely if it is hurt. Injured, frightened animals may bite or scratch, even with people they love, so move slowly and protect yourself.
Some animal welfare groups and community organizations offer pet first aid classes. They can be a worthwhile way to build confidence.
Keep it ready
Store the home kit in an easy-to-reach spot that everyone in the household knows about. Keep the car kit in a sturdy container. Check both every few months, restock used items and replace anything expired. Most important of all: after any injury or emergency, call your veterinarian for advice, even if first aid seemed to help.
