Dog First Aid Kit Should You Get One

First Aid Kit for Dogs

If you wonder if you need a dog first aid kit the answer in short is yes! Part of taking care of your dog includes cleaning up cuts, scratches and dressing minor injuries.

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This is where a dog first aid kit comes in handy. Of course you can use the goodies in your home first aid kit but a small kit for you dog is ideal to put in their travel bag. This way you will have your dogs gear ready for hiking, the car, etc all in one handy spot.

With this said if your canine buddy has a serious injury, or you aren’t sure what is the cause of the injury then if possible out them in their crate and to get them to the veterinary. When they get into trouble, it will be your job to help.

Many of the problems a dog faces are similar to those of our own. Until you can get your dog to a vet, he will depend on you. Having the supplies you need on hand will really help you to be effective.

Best First Aid Kits for Dogs

Dog First Aid Kit Supply Basics

There are lots of first aid kits available for dogs and puppies. However, unless you have experience with first aid for dogs you will likely be sticking to taking care of your dogs basic needs when it comes to injuries. At minimum these are some of the items to pack in your dog medical kit.

What to Include (the Basics)

Rolls of gauze and tape

Hydrogen peroxide for cleaning wounds

A clean blanket for wrapping your dog if they are in shock

Comfort toy or item to help calm your dog

Blood-clotting topical product (essential if you groom your dog and trim their nails)

Antihistamine for bee or wasp stings

Antibiotic gel and an eye wash

Rectal thermometer for dogs

Absorbent cotton, gauze rolls or pads

Round tip scissors

Tweezers

Syringes (without the needle) for giving oral medications, elastic bandages

First aid guide

                                                                                                                                                                                            First Aid Book for Dogs

There are lots of first aid books for dog’s. Pick one that is easy to read and one that you can follow easily. When you get your book you’ll want to take some time to read over it.

This way if you need to administer first aid you will be somewhat prepared.

And be sure to keep a copy in or near your dog first aid kit for quick reference.

First Aid Book for Dogs

Blanket

A dog blanket is a must have in your canine travel bag. If your dog is injured or panicking, you will help calm them down by wrapping them in a blanket. It will give them security as well as allowing you to get access to their injury while lessening the risk of getting scratched or bit. I use a microfiber as they are soft, absorbent, lightweight and easy to clean.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Beside cleaning minor wounds Hydrogen peroxide is used if a dog does ingest something toxic. and you may have to induce vomiting. Before taking this into your own hands it is important to contact poison control professional or your veterinary before inducing vomiting. In addition it’s crucial that you get familiar yourself with the proper instructions on how to do this. The last thing you want is to learn how to do this if your dog is sick.

Again, do not attempt to administer this to your dog without professional guidance.

Antibiotic Ointment

A dab of antibiotic applied to cuts and scratches can help to protect your dog from infections. If you and your pup are the outdoorsy type, it is advisable to keep this type of item on you at all times.

If your pup gets a small cut or scratch, antibiotic ointments will help prevent infection, relieve pain, and act as a barrier from bacteria and germs. It’s something every first-aid kit should have.

Even minor cuts and scrapes can lead to a lot of major health problems if they become infected.

Soft Muzzle

When a dog is injured dog they get scared. Even the gentles of dogs may tend to get snappy in an effort to protect themself. With this said sometimes a soft muzzle may be helpful if you need to restrain your dog while getting them to the vet for the care they need. Only use if really necessary however.

Styptic Powder for Bleeding Nails

This is a must have for any pet owner. Styptic Powder is a first aid product for pets that will stop bleeding if your accidentally  trim your pet’s (dog, cat, bird, rabbits) claws by clipping them too far back.

It is a powder that when applied stops the rush of blood from the vessel in the claw (nail).

Unlike human fingernails, dogs, cats and birds have blood vessels that run down the center of their thick claw. So make sure you pack a small pot in your dog first aid bag to stop bleeding nails.

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Make sure the one you choose has everything you need. Be sure to add clotting powder such as styptic powder. And since dogs love to chase things like wasps you need to get a good antihistamine in first aid kits.

Comfort Items

If your dog is in distress having some of their comfort items may be useful. Keep one of their favorite toys, some treats and of course some water to help them through this time. If your dog doesn’t eat, that is okay, but the simple scent of their toy or blanket will offer some familiarity.

Your Dog’s Paperwork

If you are in a emergency situation the last thing you need is to struggle with finding contacts and important information. Time is of the essence and you want all of your dog’s info in one place. Keep a copy of your dogs vaccination and medical history together. This will help if your vet to be able to provide better,  and safer care if they have your dog’s medical history.

And if you are traveling ask for a recommendation or a phone number when you reach your destination.

In the event of a disaster, you may not have electricity, internet, or phone service. So in the event of such events keep a hard copy of all of your dog’s paperwork with your emergency kit. In addition a keep a USB drive with your dog’s medical history and records as a backup.

Flashlight

A flashlight is not standard with a dog first aid kit. But it’s something you want to keep on hand.

Beside walking at night-time a flashlight will help you to get more light when if you need to pull out a splinter, find a pill or find your way around in general.

A small flashlight is easily packed into your dogs travel bag or first aid kit. They are ideal when you are walking and hiking and I pack them in my dog’s survival bag too!

And you want to make sure that you have plenty of batteries or invest in one that you can charge with solar too.

Leaving Your Dog With a Sitter

If you go out of town and leave your pup with a dog sitter or friend, make sure they know where the paperwork and contacts are in the event of an emergency. And if you are traveling ask for a recommendation or a phone number when you reach your destination.

Basic First Aid for Dogs

Take time to learn the basics of first aid. Ask your veterinary about local first aid courses for courses. In addition you can ask groomers as well as local trainers for recommendations too.

CPR for Dog Basic Video

No one wants to think about doing CPR in their dog. But its better to be prepared in the event of an emergency. Below is a video of pet CPR for pet owners.

When In Doubt – Call The Vet

If you think your dog may need professional care in the middle of the night or on a weekend, consider calling your vet and advising him. He may have some good advice or instructions to help you reach him.  Many cities now have pet emergency centers.  It is advisable to keep their number in your first aid kit as well.

Concluding First Aid Kit for Dogs

Accidents happen, even the most careful pet parents just can’t stop their dog from getting into everything. So you can see why a dog first aid kit is a must have in your dog gear arsenal. When in doubt always check in with a vet and if they instruct to to give your canine something or take their temperature, then you will be equipped to do so. A first aid kit will give pat parents some additional peace of mind.

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