When it comes to your pup, you never know what mischief they might get themselves into. It is important always to be prepared for accidents or injuries at home or on the go. Creating your own canine first-aid kit can help you feel prepared and ready to keep your dog safe in any unprecedented situation.
Here are a few essential items you must have in your canine first-aid kit that can easily be picked up at your local pharmacy or pet supply store!
Container
First, you need a big container to put your first aid items in. This could be a makeup bag, a large Ziplock baggie, or whatever you feel is secure enough to store all your items.
Contact Card
In this container, be sure to have a card that contains emergency info like your primary vet number and the closest emergency vet hospital. Having these numbers on hand can save you a lot of time in an emergency.
Antiseptic
You’ll need to get dog-specific antiseptic spray or cream for your pup’s emergency kit. Usually derived from chlorhexidine, these antiseptic solutions don’t sting and help treat skin decay in dogs. In a pinch, pure chlorhexidine works as an antiseptic and can be found in most drugstores.
Gauze
Use gauze to dress a dog’s wound. The material will soak up discharge and help avoid infection.
Non-Stick Bandages
With dogs specifically, you’ll want to use non-stick bandages to ensure they won’t pull out your dog’s fur upon removal. It’s best to pair these bandages with gauze and antiseptic. The use of all three prevents infection and further wound openings.
Tweezers
Tweezers are a versatile tool and must be included in a canine first-aid kit. If debris or foreign objects like shards of metal, glass, thorns, quills, or ticks are lodged in your pet, use tweezers to remove them before they cause infection. If objects are lodged too deep into your pet to remove, cover them loosely with gauze and go to the vet immediately.
Canine First Aid Manual
Unless you’re a vet, chances are you won’t know how to treat every ailment thrown at your dog. Luckily, there are pocket guides to help. These small, canine first aid manuals can fit in a first aid pack and usually have a symptoms section and treatment procedures. They should be stored in easy-access areas of your pack.
Having a canine first-aid kit in your home or vehicle is important for dogs of any age, especially young puppies who are more prone to not understanding their limits. At Lankas Labs, we raise healthy Labrador puppies that make perfect family pets and adventure buddies.
If you are interested in welcoming a new puppy into your home, check our Up-N-Coming litter’s page for updates or call us at (785)626-9313 for more information!
