A Inventory List for Pet First Aid

As a pet owner, you know your curious critters can get into things better left alone. Maybe Kitty nibbled on a toxic lily, or Fido cut his paw on one of your outings. If you have a pet first aid kit, you're prepared to help until they get veterinary attention.

  1. Paperwork

    • Your pets' first aid kit should start with a good pet first aid book. Take time at the bookstore or online to find a book providing basic instructions if your cat or dog suddenly needs help. Don't pack it away in the kit immediately; take some time to look through it and familiarize yourself with its contents so if you ever need help, you can find what you're looking for. A list of phone numbers is important, including your vet's name and number, the nearest emergency vet clinic and a number for poison control, such as the ASPCA's hotline: 888-426-4435. Finally, include copies of your pets' vaccination records, as well as other important personal medical information. If your pets take any medication, keep a dose in the kit.

    Basic First Aid Kit

    • Whether you have a dog, cat or both, pet first aid kits have some fundamental pieces that are helpful in case of an emergency. The starter pieces include a nylon leash, absorbent gauze pads, rolled gauze -- which can be used as a muzzle -- scissors, clean strips of cloth for cleaning wounds, elastic self-adhering bandages, tape, non-latex disposable or rubber gloves, tweezers, rectal thermometer and petroleum jelly, cotton balls and antiseptic lotion. A bottle of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide should also be included, helpful for inducing vomiting as your vet or poison control center advises. An oral dosing syringe and teaspoons are useful for measuring and administering peroxide. Triple antibiotic ointment should also be in your kit, but consult your vet before using it.

    Nice Extras

    • If you have space, other helpful items include milk of magnesia or activated charcoal to treat poisoning, liquid dish-washing detergent, an ice pack, a can of tasty pet food, ophthalmic saline solution, electrolyte beverage, a foil blanket, a pillowcase to confine a restless cat for treatment, glucose paste or corn syrup for diabetic dogs, splints and tongue depressors. Diphenhydramine, commonly known as Benedryl, is good to have in the kit for allergic reactions; it should not contain combination ingredients and should be 25mg tablets.

    Using Your Kit

    • If Fido nicked his paw pad, you'll be well-situated to fix him up with the contents of your kit. However, if Kitty ate a lily, the first thing to do is call your vet or the poison control hotline. Never induce vomiting or administer medication without talking to a professional first. Keep in mind that injured animals are often scared and may bite or scratch when you try to help, so proceed with caution. Your goal is to stabilize your pal and get appropriate medical attention as soon as possible; first aid won't replace veterinary care.