As a pet parent, you know that anything can, and at some point probably will, happen. Your pet might get in a scrape with another animal, tussle with a blackberry bush, or scrap himself up on rocky hike in the foothills. These are not necessarily emergencies (although they can be), but just minor bumps and scratches that can be tended to with a little first aid.
By taking the time now to assemble a pet first-aid kit, you can be better able provide whatever care is needed, when it’s needed. Not only will having a pet first-aid kit on hand help you to stabilize your pet in an emergency, but it will also keep you from coming in when emergency care might not be necessary. And while we do encourage you to call with any questions or concerns you might have, you should have these items on hand, just in case:
Wound Care – Sterile saline, an antiseptic solution, and antibiotic ointment are important to have. Latex gloves are also handy when dealing with wounds.
Bandage Supplies – Keep a roll of gauze, 1” waterproof tape, 2” bandage wrap, and gauze pads on hand.
Tick Removal Supplies – Tweezers, rubbing alcohol, a lighter (for disposal), and latex gloves should always be at the ready for Montana pets.
Hydrogen Peroxide – Not only does diluted hydrogen peroxide help with cleaning wounds, but you may also be instructed to induce vomiting at some point, and hydrogen peroxide can be an effective way to do so. Never induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a veterinarian, at which point they will walk you through it.
Karo Syrup – Corn syrup rubbed on the gums can help to raise blood sugar in a hypoglycemic animal while you seek help.
Medications – Talk with us about what medications you should have on hand for your pet. Your pet’s health status can influence this advice. Never give your pet human medications without a veterinarian’s instructions and dosage reccomendations.
Muzzle – Injured animals may bite, no matter how nice they normally are. A properly fitted muzzle can be essential for you to transport your pet safely.
Pet First-Aid Help – Consider taking a class in pet first aid, buying a book on the topic, or downloading the American Red Cross’ Pet First Aid app for your smartphone. This advice will guide your through the basics and help you to determine how serious your pet’s condition really is.
Emergency Information – You should keep your vet’s phone number as well as a secondary emergency vet’s phone number on hand and programmed into your cell phone. When in doubt, make a phone call. Even if you think you have the situation under control, your vet’s office may point out unforeseen concerns or issues that you were unaware of. Consider keeping a copy of your pet’s medical record as well. You should also have the contact information for Animal Poison Control.
Consider storing all of your first-aid supplies in as small tackle box or airtight container. You may also want to consider making a second kit for your car, truck, or camping box, so that these supplies are available to you wherever you might be. Most of the items can be purchased over-the-counter, and we can help you with whatever you can’t find, as well as instructions about pet-friendly medications.
Having a first-aid kit available will provide you with everything you might need to help your pet in case of a pet emergency. With a little planning you can help to ensure that your pet’s crisis will have the best possible outcome, even in the worst of situations.
As a pet parent, you know that anything can, and at some point probably will, happen. Your pet might get in a scrape with another animal, tussle with a blackberry bush, or scrap himself up on rocky hike in the foothills. These are not necessarily emergencies (although they can be), but just minor bumps and scratches that can be tended to with a little first aid.
