Dog first aid kit: what you should have at home

September 06, 2021

Emergencies can strike at any time. So it is good to be prepared. Nothing better than always carrying a small dog first-aid kit with you!

Now, do you know what you should have in your dog's first aid kit? We tell you everything.

Why have a first aid kit for dogs?

As we told you before, accidents happen when you least expect them. We want to make sure you have what it takes to respond quickly and appropriately to any pet injury. After all, just like humans, immediate attention can make a difference in the overall condition of your furry friend.

20 things to have in your first aid kit for dogs

Next, we will tell you everything that a complete first aid kit for dogs should contain. Does this mean that every time you go out for a walk with your dog, you should carry all this with you? Don't worry: this is the home kit, also recommended for holiday, in another section, we tell you what you should take with you when you go out for a walk.

First aid shopping list for dogs:

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1. Absorbent gauze pads

They are super useful and recommended cleaning a wound. If you need to place some as the base of a bandage, we advise you to have non-stick bandage pads, since these do not disrupt any clot or scab formed in the healing process.

2. Cotton balls or swabs

Due to their size and soft texture, they are ideal for gently and precisely cleaning any wound, even delicate areas such as the ears or eyes.

3. Wound Disinfectant

Povidone-iodine or Chlorhexidine diacetate are two good options. These antiseptic solutions are perfect for disinfecting wounds, but they should always be used diluted according to the manufacturer's instructions.

4. Adhesive tape

To secure a bandage, nothing better than duct tape.

5. Fresh 3% hydrogen peroxide

This substance is used to induce vomiting in case of poisoning. IMPORTANT: You need the consent of your veterinarian or an animal poison control expert before using it.

6. Saline solution

The saline solution is perfect for cleaning wounds. Do not use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean a wound on your puppy.

7. Gauze roll

The gauze rolls are used to create bandages against open wounds or twisted limbs. Of course, you can also use your dog's bandana for this purpose if necessary and not have a gauze roll at your fingertips.

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8. Scissors with blunt end

Can you imagine having to cut a bandage or adhesive tape with your teeth? Nothing better than having scissors in your kit for this purpose. Of course, the blunt end prevents you from cutting and injuring your four-legged friend's skin while you are treating him.

9. Splint

If your dog suffers a sprain or breaks a bone, it is a priority to immobilize the area, and for that a splint is perfect.

10. OTC antibiotic ointment

For protection against infections on minor cuts, scrapes, and other injuries. You must apply it before using the bandage.

11. Eye flush saline

If your dog gets grass, pollen or any other substance in his eye, you can use eye flush saline to clean the area and relieve his discomfort.

12. Disposable gloves

Always use disposable gloves to avoid contaminating wounds.

13. Diphenhydramine

More commonly known as Benadryl. This anti-allergic can be used against bee or wasp bites. Check with your vet to make sure your dog can consume diphenhydramine.

14. Thermometer

It never hurts to have a thermometer to check the body temperature of your furry friend.

15. Tweezers

A basic of the kit to remove, for example, splinters that can hurt your dog's paws.

16. Oral syringe

Having a syringe handy can help you clean wounds with a little pressure of the saline solution, but without hurting your dog.

17. Instant cold pack

Cold compresses are applied to relieve inflammation and swelling caused by minor wounds, stings or other discomfort. They can also help in case of heat stroke.

18. Muzzle

If your dog is injured, he can try to defend himself when you want to help him. A muzzle can be useful to protect you and, at the same time, allow you to offer him help.

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19. Tick remove

Don't leave ticks on your dog's skin until you get home. A tick remove will allow you to remove it as soon as you see it.

20. A blanket

If it's winter, it can help to have a blanket, so your dog can keep warm while help arrives.

NOTE: your first aid kit for your dog should include the phone number and name of your trusted veterinarian, as well as all the information about the local veterinary emergency clinic.