First Aid for Fido
While on the subject of seasonal safety, free of the confinement of winter weather, many of us and our dogs are taking part in active, outdoor activity in which some risk of injury must be considered. It is really a great idea to have a first aid kit available for ALL family members, including Fido. There are many commercially available, pre-packaged ones. Your veterinarian can also make recommendations as to what to include. A well stocked first aid kit is also an important component of your home “get away” kit for use during a natural disaster or other emergency. None of us plan to leave our pet behind and we must be prepared for on the road emergencies. Below is one list of items to include in your first aid kit bag.
Sterile gauze pads (3”X3”) and (2”X2”) and guaze bandage rolls (1” and 2”), and vet wrap.
First aid adhesive tape, 1” roll
Cotton swabs
Tweezers
Scissors
Plastic freezer/sandwich bags
Small bottle of 3% hydrogen peroxide
Styptic pencil or cornstarch ( to stem blood flow from minor cuts)
Antibacterial ointment
Antiseptic cleansing wipes
Kaopectate or Pepto Bismol (canned pumpkin can also help with stomach upset)
A current pet first aid book
Eyewash
Eyedropper
Mineral Oil (a lubricant and laxative when given by mouth)
Digital or rectal thermometer in a plastic case
Leather work gloves (to protect you from being bitten)
Latex gloves
Leash
Thin rope
Splint materials (tongue depressor, 12 inch wooden ruler, or thick magazine)
Muzzle (soft or basket style to which your dog has been desensitized)
AND ALWAYS, but especially with injury or emergency in mind, ensure that your dog has identification, including microchip or tattoo, to facilitate returning him to you if you should become separated.
Tags: first-aid, health, injury, safety, seasonal
