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Long Island's Premier Pet Service

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Long Island's Premier Pet Service

Discussing Pet First Aid And What Items You Should Keep In Your Pet First Aid Kit In Honor Of Pet First Aid Awareness Month

April is a very important month for pet owners because it is widely observed as Pet First Aid Awareness Month. This holiday is dedicated to educating pet owners about the importance of being prepared for emergencies involving their furry friends. Just as we keep a first aid kit handy for ourselves and our families, having one tailored specifically for our pets can make all the difference in a crisis. 

Whether it’s a minor scrape or a more serious injury, having the right supplies on hand can provide immediate care and potentially save your pet’s life. In honor of Pet First Aid Awareness Month, this article will discuss all of the basic essentials you should have in your pet first aid kit. 

First aid kit basics

First aid kit basics

Basic First Aid Supplies

  • Sterile gauze pads and rolls for wrapping wounds
  • Adhesive tape to secure bandages
  • Scissors with rounded tips to trim fur and bandages
  • Tweezers to remove splinters or ticks
  • Non-latex disposable gloves to protect yourself and prevent infection
  • Cotton balls or swabs for applying ointments or cleaning wounds
  • Hydrogen peroxide (3%) for inducing vomiting (only under the guidance of a veterinarian)
  • Digital thermometer (pet-specific if possible) to monitor your pet’s temperature
  • Ice packs or instant cold packs to reduce swelling

Topical Medications

  • Antiseptic solution or wipes to clean wounds
  • Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection
  • Hydrocortisone cream for itching and minor skin irritations
  • Styptic powder to stop bleeding from minor cuts or broken nails

    Oral medications

    Oral medications

Oral Medications

  • Hydrogen peroxide (only if advised by a veterinarian for inducing vomiting)
  • Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for allergic reactions (consult your vet for dosage)
  • Any prescribed medications your pet may need regularly

Emergency Contact Information

  • Contact information for your regular veterinarian
  • Contact information for the nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic
  • Poison control hotline number (such as ASPCA Poison Control: 1-888-426-4435)

Additional Supplies

  • Muzzle (only if your pet is prone to biting when in pain or scared)
  • Blanket or towel for warmth and comfort
  • Pet carrier or crate for safe transport to the vet
  • Flashlight with extra batteries for nighttime emergencies
  • Pet-specific first aid manual or guidebook for reference
Veterinary records

Veterinary records

Personal Items

  • Copies of your pet’s medical records, including vaccinations and any chronic conditions
  • Recent photo of your pet (in case they go missing)
  • Identification tags with up-to-date contact information

First Aid Education

Remember, while having a pet first aid kit is essential, it’s equally important to know how to use its contents. Consider taking a pet first aid and CPR class to learn valuable skills that could make a difference in an emergency. For more information about pet first aid training classes, click here. Additionally, always keep your kit in a designated, easily accessible location, and check it regularly to ensure that supplies haven’t expired or been used up.

A Holiday That Saves Lives

By being proactive and prepared, you can provide your beloved pet with the care they need in times of distress. Pet First Aid Awareness Month serves as a reminder to all pet owners that a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring the well-being of our furry companions.

A professional pet sitter & dog walker

A professional pet sitter & dog walker

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