You never know when emergencies might happen, especially when you have pets. Dogs often get into things they shouldn’t, which could end up injuring your dog or making them sick. So, it’s a good idea to have a pet first aid kit with emergency supplies to help keep your dog safe.
Of course, if the concern is severe enough, you should also rush them to the emergency vet. I know emergency vets can be expensive, but trust me, they can also be life-savers for pets in pain.
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What is a Dog First Aid Kit for?
A dog first aid kit contains the essentials you might need if your dog has an emergency, such as eating a foreign object or scraping their leg. It’s a good idea to have one of these kits at home and when traveling with your furry friend, such as during a flight or road trip.
While some aspects of a human first aid kit can be helpful for dogs, such as some bandages, there are a lot of emergency items that are pet-specific, such as a thermometer, ointments, and anything your dog needs to ingest.
A first aid kit for dogs is simply a precautionary measure. Hopefully, you’ll never have to use it, but it could be life-saving if you ever need it.
What to Pack in a Dog First Aid Kit
There are plenty of dog first aid kits that come pre-packaged, but if you want to build your own, you need to decide what items to include. Below are some important products that you might need in an emergency. It's always a good idea to ask a vet for help selecting items.
Emergency Contact Card
It’s always a good idea to have emergency numbers written down just in case. This includes your vet’s number, the number of the nearest emergency vet, and the number for the Pet Poison Helpline. Having these numbers in the first aid kit ensures that they’re accessible to anyone trying to help your pet, such as a sitter. That’s why it’s important to have them in there even if they’re already saved in your phone.
Thermometer
Knowing your pet’s temperature can be important for determining what’s wrong with them. A dog’s body temperature should normally be between 101 and 102.5°F (38.3 to 39.2°C), so anything above or below that is a cause for concern. A rectal thermometer is the most accurate, but there are thermometers that go in the ear or under the armpit too if you don’t think you can properly use a rectal one.
Bandage Supplies
The most important part of a dog first aid kit is bandages to wrap wounds in. This should include a variety of gauze pads, gauze bandages, and medical tape. If it’s not an emergency, it’s ideal to contact a vet to find out if a bandage is needed. If you need to use one, make sure it’s snug but not so tight that it will cut off circulation. It’s a good idea to have some gloves in your first aid kit too to prevent fluids from getting on your skin.
Pet-Safe Ointments and Wipes
Ointments and wipes formulated specifically for dogs can be applied to wounds to prevent infections. It’s best to avoid human ointments because they might not include pet-safe ingredients, which would be especially bad if your dog tries to lick the area. If you’re unsure of which products to use, ask a vet.
Saline Solution
Saline solutions can be used to get dirt and debris off a dog’s wounds before applying a band aid. When applying it, make sure your finger doesn’t touch the tip of the bottle since that could affect its cleansing abilities. This item usually doesn’t need to be canine-specific, but feel free to consult your vet if you’re nervous about including it in your kit.
Tweezers
You can use tweezers to remove anything stuck to your dog’s fur or skin, such as burs and splinters. It’s always a good idea to clean tweezers first if possible to reduce the risk of infection.
Detoxifier
A detoxifier is something you can give your dog after they ate something toxic, such as dangerous human foods like chocolate. It can absorb toxins to protect your pet. A similar tool is hydrogen peroxide, which can induce vomiting in emergencies. It’s best to only use these types of items under the instructions of poison control or a vet.
Blanket or Towel
A blanket is always a good item to have available in an emergency. It can be wrapped around your dog for warmth in the event of hypothermia or shock. Most first aid kits aren’t big enough for a standard blanket, but an emergency blanket is a compact and lightweight option that can easily come along during travel. If you have a blanket in your first aid kit, make sure it’s surrounded by a waterproof material to keep it effective.
Recovery Cone
Finally, consider keeping an e-collar in your first aid kit for dogs if possible. Comfortable dog cones, such as fabric ones and inflatable ones, can become much more compact than plastic ones. Dog recovery cones are beneficial in an emergency because they can prevent your dog from biting at their wounds and making them worse.
These are just a few beneficial items for your dog first aid kit. You can add or change any of these items based on what you think you’ll need the most. Again, it’s always best to build a dog first aid kit with the guidance of a vet to ensure your don’t forget anything important.
Buy a Pre-Packaged Dog First Aid Kit
If the idea of creating a DIY dog first aid kit seems like too much for you, there’s no need to panic. There are plenty of pet emergency kits you can buy that already have all the essential products assembled. If any of them are missing something you want to include, you can add more stuff to them if needed.
Here are some pre-packaged dog first aid kits you can get:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use First Aid Antiseptic on My Dog?
Yes, some first aid antiseptics for humans are safe for dogs. Chlorhexidine and betadine are a few pet-safe human antiseptics. While you’re putting together a dog first aid kit, consult a vet to find out if specific human products are pet safe.
How Often Should I Check/Restock My Pet First Aid Kit?
It’s a good idea to check your pet first aid kit about every six months. Restock any products that are low (especially bandages) and check expiration dates on oral and topical products.
How Much is a Dog First Aid Course?
You can take a dog first aid course to learn exactly how to act in a pet emergency. These courses typically cost anywhere from $50 and $150, depending on where you take the course and what it includes.
Plan Ahead with a Dog First Aid Kit
Having a dog first aid box available is the best way to keep your dog safe in an emergency. While some first aid supplies for humans might work for pets, such as some bandages, supplies catered specifically to dogs will be best (never give your dog medication meant for humans without a vet’s permission).
It’s up to you to decide if you want to build your own first aid kit or buy a pre-packaged one. When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to ask a vet for suggestions on products to include. Having some of these items at home or on a dog-friendly vacation could save your dog’s life.