What should be in your pet's first aid kit?

Must-haves in your pet's first aid kit

Bandages or strips of clean cloth

These are handy whenever your pet is bleeding. These keep the wound clean until it can be treated by your veterinarian. Non-adhesive wraps can be the most convenient option since it doesn't stick to your pet's fur, making it easier and faster to remove.

Depending on the size of your pet, make sure you have extra rolls of bandages and twice as much clean cloth strips. Have a least one sized to go around your dog's waist. A variety of sizes will help you be prepared for any size injury.

Note: Never use human adhesive bandages!

Scissors

Let's admit it. A pair of scissors make our lives a whole lot easier. It would be pretty difficult to cut any bandaging material, tape, etc without this.

Digital thermometer

This determines the body temperature of a dog, whether he has fever or is hypothermic. The normal body temperature of dogs and cats is approximately 99.5-102.5°F).

Sterile Saline Wash

A sterile saline wash can be used to wash your pet's wound, eyes (if there is debris), and even provide a flush on your pet's nose.

Water

We grew up believing that water is life. Indeed, it is. Water does not only re-hydrate your pet (or you) but it can also be used to clean the wound, soothe burns and cool down an overheated pet. Always keep a gallon of water in your pet's first aid kit, along with a water bowl if you are traveling.

Medicines

If your dog is under any maintenance or prescription, don't forget to bring his medicines. You can also add on some diphenhydramine (an antihistamine that can be used for allergic reactions, temporarily), styptic powder (stops bleeding in minor cuts), sugar tablets (can help with pets with low blood sugar) and maybe some supplements such as allergy or multi-vitamin in case your pet starts to feel unwell. Medicines are essential to put in your pet's first aid kit.

Dog diapers, pee pads

Pets easily get stressed out. A small change in his daily routine, a new encounter with unfamiliar places, people or animals can trigger him to become anxious.

Dog diapers and pee pads can become handy because when your pet is stressed, he will go through unexpected behavioral changes like peeing and pooping simply anywhere. Dog diapers and pee pads can also be used as cover up for wounds so your pet won't be licking or scratching the affected area.

Treats

Don't forget the treats in your pet's first aid kit! Treats are a great way to distract and keep calm a wounded or injured pet. Giving treats to your pet is very helpful especially when cleaning the affected area, bandaging or transporting him to the vet.

Updated contacts

Keep your vet's contact information updated and know it before you need it. Place it inside your pet's first aid kit so you can immediately make a call when there's an emergency. It is also recommended that you include a copy of your pet's updated health card so the vet will know what vaccines he's already had in case he's bitten by other dogs or by stray animals or he nips at someone due to stress and fear.