How to Create an Emergency First Aid Kit for Your Dog

As a responsible dog owner, it is advisable to have an emergency first aid kit for your dog ready for any emergency that may come up. In this way you will be able to administer first aid before reaching your veterinarian's office, especially if it is a great distance away.

While they are available for purchase from pet supply stores, it is easy and more economical for you to create your own emergency first aid kit for your dog.

Ointments and Solutions for Your Emergency First Aid Kit for Your Dog

Betadine solution, an antiseptic iodine solution, used to clean wounds

Neosporin, a topical antibiotic available as an ointment or spray, used to treat wounds

Bag Balm, an ointment containing lanolin, also used to treat wounds especially on the paws

Panalog, an antibacterial, antifungal ointment, also used for wounds

Saline solution used to flush out eyes

Artificial tear solution for after flushing

Styptic powder used to stop bleeding especially from toenails

Over the Counter Medications for Your Emergency First Aid Kit for Your Dog

Dramamine used for nausea and motion sickness

Pepcid AC used for nausea

Benadryl used for allergic reactions and insect

Activated charcoal used for absorbing ingested toxins

Immodium AD used for diarrhea

Pepto Bismol used for upset stomach and diarrhea

Kaopectate used for upset stomach and diarrhea

Hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting

Buffered aspirin, liver flavored, used to relieve pain

Consult with your veterinarian as to the proper dosage for your dog.

Prescription Medications for Your Emergency First Aid Kit for Your Dog

Amoxicillin used for infections

Cephalexin used for infections

Metronidazole used for diarrhea

Prednisone used for allergic reactions

Cimetidine used for nausea

Upon request, your veterinarian should be to able provide small quantities of these medications and advise you as to the correct dosage.

Bandages and Other Items

Sterile gauze pads

Sterile rolled gauze

Vet wrap

Cotton balls

Cotton tipped applicators

Hot and cold pack

Scissors

Animal ear thermometer or rectal thermometer

Depending on your dog, your veterinarian may recommend that you include additional items such as glucose spray for diabetic dogs.

Use a sturdy plastic container with a handle large enough to store all the items listed above. Your emergency first aid kit should be kept in a convenient place in your home and also taken with you when traveling with your dog.

Hopefully you will never have to use an emergency first aid kit for your dog. But if an urgent situation does arise, you will be ready for it.