What to Have in a Pet First Aid Kit

While we despair at the thought of anything happening to our beloved furry friends, the reality is that accidents happen, sometimes when you least expect. This is why we've put together this quick guide to pet first aid kits so you can be preapred in the event of an accident. 

Do You Need a Pet First Aid Kit?

The short answer is yes. You should have a pet first aid kit in your home so you're prepared if any accidents occur. We especially recommend you have a first aid kit for pets in your car or bag if you go out exploring with your pet because, sadly, accidents do happen. As they say, it's better to have it and not need it than the alternative. 

You can buy readily assembled pet first kits online, like this Hi-Travel First Aid Kit for Pets, or you can build your own with all the necessary items you might need in an emergency. 

What Should Be in a Pet First Aid Kit? 

Before we get into specifics, it's important to know that pet first aid kits are not a cure-all. You should call an emergency vet for advice in case of serious accidents or illness. However, having even some of these items to hand could make a huge difference if an accident does occur. 

By building your own pet first aid kit, you can tailor the products you buy specifically to your pet's size and species and also take your pet's known health conditions into account. For example, if your pet is diagnosed with allergies, having some spare allergy treatments to hand could be handy in a pinch, or you can knowingly exclude products you know won't agree with your pet.

There are a few basics you should aim to have in your pet's first aid kit: 

• Bandages (both cohesive bandages and conforming bandages are recommended)

• Non-adhesive dressings (Various sizes are recommended)

• Surgical tape

• Sterile gauze

• Cotton wool

• Blunt-ended scissors

• Pet-safe antiseptic pads/wipes or wound wash

• Tweezers

• Tick removal tool

• A blanket or a towel, like this Henry Wag® Microfibre Cleaning Towel

• Examination gloves

With these basics, you should be prepared in case any accidents happen. If your pet is wounded while you’re out and about, ensure you have your vet’s phone number saved and the number for an out-of-hours vet or other animal emergency services. Also, ensure you have some record of your pet’s health so you have it to hand if you need to see a different vet or an out-of-hours vet who doesn’t have access to your pet’s records.

What does ABC stand for in Pet First Aid?

A common acronym for pet first aid is the Dr ABC, which is short and easy to remember and can help you stay calm and focused in emergencies. It goes as follows: 

• Danger — Keep yourself and others safe

• Response — Is your pet responding to their name? Are they responding to touch?

• Airway — Is your pet’s airway clear?

• Breathing — Is your pet breathing?

• Circulation — Does your pet have a pulse or heartbeat?

• Send — Send someone to get help. If you’re alone with the animal, call for help with your phone. 

Please note that during an emergency situation, especially when wounded, your pet may not behave as it normally would. They will be scared and hurt and might lash out, even bite, to try to protect themselves. 

By having all the pet first aid essentials handy in your home, you can treat minor injuries with ease. If you’re ever worried about your pet after an accident, call your vet as soon as possible. Even if there isn't a vet free to help, nurses and other staff may be able to advise on what to do. If you’re looking to build your own pet first aid kit, check out our great range of pet first aid and healthcare products so you can be prepared no matter what.