Accidents and emergencies can occur anytime, even if your pet is well-behaved and calm. You need to be ready with the appropriate supplies to give immediate care to prevent the injury or illness from worsening before you get them to professional care.

While you can buy a pre-made first aid kit, you may want to customize your own to fit your pet’s specific needs or lifestyle. Ensure you have the first aid kit at home and when you go on trips with them. Here are some items you should have in your pet’s first aid kit.

Medical records and contact information

Your pet’s medical records can help vets provide better and safer care. You may not have time to look around for the papers in an emergency. So it’s best to keep them in one place, the first aid kit. You can keep a list of emergency contacts such as your vet, an emergency veterinarian, and the animal control line as a backup if you already have these contacts on your phone. You can also store hard copies of your pet’s legal papers and other information in the kit.

First aid manual

Knowing how to apply first aid is as important as having the kit. You can attend a first aid class for pet owners, read books on animal health, and, more importantly, read the kit manual. The manual contains information on using the first aid items and identifying and treating injuries and illnesses. You also learn how to prepare and take care of your pets during emergencies.

Ice/Hot Packs

Ice or hot packs are essential for treating aches, soreness, or serious injuries. Cold packs help relieve pain and reduce swelling, while heat packs quicken recovery. You can put a cloth between the pack and your pet’s skin to avoid hurting your pet or exposing them to extreme temperatures. When applying, look out for skin reactions or inflammation to avoid making things worse.

Splints

If your dog or cat is very active, they are susceptible to broken or dislocated bones. You can use moldable splint rolls to keep the bones in place and reduce your pet’s movement before getting to the vet.

Thermometer

You can use a thermometer to determine if your pet’s temperature is above or below normal or if they’re showing signs of illness or discomfort. You can take the temperature rectally for more accurate readings.

Bandages and gauze

Non-stick bandages and gauze help control bleeding and protect wounds from contamination. If you don’t have bandages, you can use clean rags or socks instead. You should also have adhesive tapes or safety pins to hold the dressing. Ensure you buy wound dressing made for pets, not humans.

Hydrogen Peroxide

While cats don’t respond to first aid treatment for poisoning, you can use hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting if your dog has eaten anything toxic or poisonous. Ensure you ask your vet or pet poison control center first before giving your pet hydrogen peroxide to make sure the substance is suitable for the type of poisoning and avoid overdose.