Thursday, February 02, 2006

A Basic Dog First Aid Kit

Activated Charcoal (available at drug stores) for absorbing poisons
Adhesive tape to secure bandages
Antibacterial ointment or powder for cleaning wounds
Artificial tears for flushing eyes
Benadryl, for allergic reactions, as directed by the vet (usually childrens benadryl at half a teaspoon)
Blunt-tipped scissors to trim hair from wounds and cut bandaging material
Chlorhexidine for cleaning wounds
Cloths or sanitary napkins to help stem blood flow
Cotton balls
Cotton swabs
Disinfectant solution
Eye dropper, turkey baster, or syringe to flush wounds
Gauze pads and rolls to make bandages and a muzzle
Hydrogen peroxide (3 percent) to induce vomiting as instructed (Do so only on the vets instruction. Do not induce vomiting unless the vet advises you to; in some cases of poisoning, throwing up can make the situation worse.)
Kaopectate (ask your vet what amount is appropriate to control your dog's diarrhea)
K-Y Brand Jelly or petroleum jelly to lubricate the thermometer
Needleless syringe for giving liquid medications
Plaster splint for broken limbs
Rectal thermometer
Towels
Tweezers
Some pet stores will sell already made up first aid kits for your dogs, however, they may not include all of the items listed above. These items are good to have around so you can be ready for just about any situation your dog can get into. Having a well supplied first aid kit around the house for your dog will help to control the situation before it gets out of hand and help the vet out as well.




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