First Aid 101

Do you know what to do if your pet has an emergency? You should always call your veterinarian and let them know what is going on and get an idea of what your next steps should be. However, just like with human medicine, it is a great idea to have first aid kit handy just in case!

Below you will find the recommend products to have inside your kit based off the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association):

Phone numbers and your pet's medical record (including medications and vaccination history) Veterinarian: Emergency veterinary clinic: Animal Poison Control Center: 888-4ANI-HELP (888-426-4435) (there may be a fee for this call)

Know these numbers before you need them. If you do not know the number of the emergency clinic in your area, ask your veterinarian.

*Gauze - For wrapping wounds or muzzling the injured animal

*Nonstick bandages, towels, or strips of clean cloth - To control bleeding or protect wounds

*Adhesive tape for bandages *do NOT use human adhesive bandages (ex Band-Aids®) on pets - For securing the gauze wrap or bandage

*Activated charcoal - To absorb poison (Always contact your veterinarian or local poison control center before inducing vomiting or treating an animal for poison)

*Hydrogen peroxide (3%) - To induce vomiting (Always contact your veterinarian or local poison control center before inducing vomiting or treating an animal for poison)

*Digital Thermometer (you will need a "fever" thermometer because the temperature scale of regular thermometers doesn't go high enough for pets) - To check your pet's temperature. (Do not insert a thermometer in your pet's mouth—the temperature must be taken rectally)

*Eye dropper (or large syringe without needle) - To give oral treatments or flush wounds

*Muzzle (in an emergency a rope, necktie, soft cloth, nylon stocking, small towel may be used) - To cover your pet's head (If your pet is vomiting, do not muzzle them)

*Leash - To transport your pet (if your pet is capable of walking without further injury)

*Stretcher (in an emergency a door, board, blanket or floor mat may be used) - To stabilize the injured animal and prevent further injury during transport

You can also become certified in Cat and Dog first aid online through The Red Cross https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/first-aid/cat-dog-first-aid

Always remember that any first aid administered to your pet should be followed by immediate veterinary care. First aid care is not a substitute for veterinary care, but it may save your pet's life until it receives veterinary treatment.

https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/emergencycare/pet-first-aid-supplies-checklist