Fido’s First-Aid Kit

April is Pet First-Aid Awareness Month! If you don’t have a first-aid kit on hand for your pup, this would be a great time to get one. It’s definitely better for you to have something and not need it, than to need it and not have it. And, as we all know, Man’s Best Bud does have a knack for getting into mischief. A local Brampton, ON vet offers some advice on putting together a doggy first-aid kit in this article.

Tools

It’s a good idea to start with a regular first-aid kit, and then add some pet-specific items to it. Some things you may need include tweezers, tick pullers, pliers, blunt-end scissors, pen light, magnifying glass, and wire cutters. You may also want to include splints, water, cling wrap, and a blanket. A thermometer may also be helpful.

Bandages

You’ll need to include things for bandaging wounds. Add things like gauze, non-stick tape, and clean towels, cotton balls, cotton swabs, and self-adhesive medical tape.

Medication

Styptic powder, activated charcoal, hydrogen peroxide, iodine, wound wash, chlorhexidine diacetate, Povidone iodine,rubbing alcohol, and antibiotic ointment are also things you may want to include. Just don’t administer anything unless instructed to by your vet or a helpline professional.

Control

We recommend keeping the kit in or near your pet’s travel bag, which should include things like dishes, food, and treats. That way, if there’s an emergency, you already have everything you may need in one spot. This also reduces the need for duplicate items. For instance, you’d need a leash and collar in a first-aid kit, but also for travel. Add a muzzle as well: even the sweetest dog can bite if they are injured.

Information

In an emergency, you could waste precious time trying to research what to do. Keep a pet first-aid brochure in the kit, along with your furry pal’s vaccination and medical records. We also recommend adding the numbers for your vet and the nearest emergency clinic. (Ours is 905-792-3456, and our emergency contact number is 905-495-9907.) A printed list of all pet-friendly hotels and shelters within a few hours’ drive may also come in handy. If you have a smartphone, download some pet first-aid apps as well. The Red Cross has a good one!

Do you have questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your Brampton, ON animal clinic, today!