Buying basic dog first aid supplies may not be one of the first tasks that come to mind when you bring home a new puppy!
But the truth is, accidents can (and do) happen at any time, and puppies aren't known for their common sense. Anyone with a puppy also knows that their ability to distinguish between activities or objects that are harmful and those the aren't is, to say the least, not highly developed!
So, it's a good idea to put together a comprehensive dog first aid kit that's fully stocked with recommended basic dog first aid supplies.
Once you have your kit readily available in your home (we recommend that you make two dog first aid kits and keep one in the car at all times), you'll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're prepared for whatever mischief Fido gets into.
The Ultimate Dog First Aid Kit
Your first task is to choose an appropriate container in which to keep all your basic dog first aid supplies.
It should be waterproof, portable and probably bigger than you're expecting. Stocking it with the right remedies, tools and equipment is essential, and it will fill up fast!
A sturdy, plastic tool box (the kind that has expandable, pull-out trays and a carrying handle) is ideal. So are fishing tackle boxes or the kind of boxes designed to hold craft equipment.
(Remember we suggest you buy two boxes and put together 2 dog first aid kits, just follow the instructions here for each box).
Whatever type of box you choose, be sure to label it clearly on the outside (in permanent marker) with the following information:
Your pet's name
Your veterinarian's telephone number
Telephone number of the nearest 24 hr. animal hospital
Poison Control Center Hotline number
Your own name, address and phone number/s
Okay, so now you have your dog first aid box all ready, so let's start to fill it....
Dog First Aid Kit List
First Aid Book One of the first things you want to put into your dog first aid kit is a good animal first aid/veterinary handbook. There are several excellent ones on the market and you may want to choose a bigger, more comprehensive reference book for home and a smaller, more concise version for your first aid kits.
Essential veterinarian Information Sheet Make a list that includes the name, age, weight and breed of each of your pets. Add their identification info. (such as microchip or tattoo numbers), your vet's telephone number and a copy of each dog's health and vaccination records. If possible include an up to date photo of each pet for additional ID purposes.
Digital Rectal Thermometer A vital part of your basic dog first aid supplies. Digital is safer than mercury. Always take a dog's temperature rectally. Normal temp. is between 100.5 & 102F. Anything higher indicates a fever (usually as a result of infection). In hot weather 106F or above can mean life-threatening heatstroke. A temp of 99F or below can mean your pup is going into shock...at the very minimum he's seriously chilled.
Vaseline or KY Jelly Use some of this to lubricate the end of the thermometer for easier insertion
Blanket/heating pad/ice packs It's important to keep an injured animal warm if they start to go into shock, as it triggers a sudden, severe drop in body temp. Single use heat-pads (the kind we humans use for back-ache etc.), hot water bottles or a Space blanket (brand name of a compact, thermal blanket ideal for canine first aid) all work well. One-use ice packs are best.
Muzzle Any dog who's injured or hurt can snap or bite. A soft, fabric muzzle works best. If you don't have one handy, you can use a piece cut from a leg of your panty-hose!
Scissors Blunt-tipped, stainless steel is best.
Tweezers Flat, slant-tipped for better grip. Use these removing splinters, ticks, thorns etc.
Rubber/latex Gloves For examination purposes
Eye-dropper/10cc syringe/turkey baster For giving medicines/fluids
Antiseptic/Disinfectant Your basic dog first aid supplies need to include AT LEAST ONE of the following for cleaning wounds - Betadine solution - 3% Hydrogen Peroxide - anti-bacterial pads or wash.
Cotton Balls/Pads/Q-Tips Cotton balls, a roll of cotton pads and a box of Q-tips are essential for cleaning wounds and applying ointments, creams etc.
Medications These are a very important part of your basic dog first aid supplies. Try to get all the following tablets, liquids etc. Choose the smallest size you can find, as many are perishable and as you (hopefully) won't need to use your dog first aid kit too often, you may need to discard some and replace them with new before they've even been opened.
Other general, but useful items we suggest you add to your dog first aid kit list are :
Lightweight leash & collar
Large & small Ziploc baggies
Small, strong flashlight
Several small, clean washcloths
Dog treats containing some sugar (to raise blood sugar levels)
Okay...that's it! If you collect all the above basic dog first aid supplies, your canine first aid kit is going to be awesome.
and finally.....
A well-stocked dog first aid kit can significantly increase your pup's chances of survival and rate of recovery.
Most illnesses, injuries and accidents suffered by puppies are minor, and if they're handled quickly and correctly you may be able to prevent them from turning into much more serious or life-threatening situations.
Being prepared could literally mean the difference between life and death!
If you'd rather buy a ready-made First Aid Kit for your pet, there are some great ones at very affordable prices. Add a good veterinary reference/first aid book and you'll be in the best position to help your pup in an emergency......
But please, always remember that these basic dog first aid supplies are for emergency use only and do not take the place of veterinary care. In the event of illness or accident you should ALWAYS TAKE YOUR PUP TO THE VETERINARIAN'S OFFICE OR NEAREST EMERGENCY PET CLINIC, as soon as possible.
Emergency 24-Hour Hotline Numbers ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center 1-888-426-4435
National Animal Poison Control Center 1-900-680-0000 or 1-800-548-2423
If you favor the natural approach to dog first aid whenever possible, check out these all-natural basic dog first aid supplies ....
A natural herbal product that is perfect for treating minor wounds such as cuts and scratches. Helps to fight off infection, speed healing and reduce pain.
Non toxic and chemical-free, also repels flies and other insects to prevent wound irritation/contamination.
This is an all-natural antibiotic, anti-inflammatory formula that gently and safely soothes coughs and respiratory problems due to allergies, kennel cough, bronchitis, upper respiratory disorders and so on.
Can be used for extended periods without side effects or other issues.
Why not help other dog owners you know keep their pet safe in an emergency? Please feel free to share this 'basic dog first aid supplies' page with them today!
