As a seasoned traveler, you probably already have a human first aid kit in your car. But when taking your pets with you, it’s important to make sure your gear is stocked with items specifically tailored to their needs.
People who enjoy road trips know how important it is to have a first aid kit in their car. Carrying essentials to treat a headache or bandage cuts can prevent minor ailments and injuries from becoming more serious. And the same goes for your furry travel companions! If you’re traveling with pets, we’ll help ensure your pet first aid kit is stocked with items you may need to help them.
How to make a pet first aid kit
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find one Pet First Aid Kit You can just buy. They cover the basics, but you still need to make some important additions to round out your kit.
If you’re willing to put in a little more time, it can be more economical to start from scratch and gather everything you need to make your own pet first aid kit. Luckily, you probably already have many of the items on hand!
READ MORE ⇒ What You Should Know About Emergency Vets (Before You Need One)
Even before you start collecting the first aid materials, it is important to know how to use them. A Pet First Aid Book is a handy reference. And by keeping it with your kit, you can quickly review all the procedures you need to help your pet.
Also, in a waterproof container or bag, include your veterinarian’s phone number, the APSCA poison control hotline (800-426-4435), your pet’s vaccination records, and copies of other important medical records.
wound care
The most common pet injuries are cuts, scrapes and snapped toenails, so let’s start there. When dealing with any of these injuries, you should stop the bleeding, clean and cover the wound until a professional can examine it. Here are the supplies your pet first aid kit should contain for these injuries:
medication
Your pet first aid kit should also contain certain medications. These should just given if directed to do so by a veterinarian or poison control center.
- Hydrogen Peroxide (3% solution) – to induce vomiting as directed by a professional
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) – for allergic reactions when prescribed by a veterinarian
READ MORE ⇒ How to check your dog’s pulse, breathing and temperature
Other useful items
It’s difficult to anticipate all the things your pet can get into while you’re out. The following items in your pet first aid kit can be helpful in a variety of situations:
Prepare for a vet visit
If your pet is injured or ill, chances are you need to see a vet. In that case, you’ll be glad to have your pet’s medical records scanned onto a USB drive in your pet first aid kit.
Having all of your pet’s vaccination and health information with you allows the veterinarian to quickly assess your pet’s condition and begin treatment.
It’s scary when your furry travel companion is injured or sick. But if you’re prepared with a little first aid knowledge, a good pet first aid kit, and vet information, you can stay calm and focus on helping your pet.
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