Dogs are naturally rowdy creatures. They bite things, play rough, and goof around with anything that moves if you leave them alone even for just a second.
Unfortunately, their proclivity for fun also makes them vulnerable to accidents and other health emergencies. This is the reason why all dog owners should have a fully equipped first aid kit for their pets which they can easily utilize should said emergencies arise.
And it is no different for dog groomers. A dog first aid kit should be an essential item in a groomer’s equipment list.
Do take note that first aid should not be treated as a substitute for proper veterinary care.
Small injuries like little cuts, bee stings, and insect bites can usually be treated at home with dog first aid kits.
But when in doubt about the state of your dog’s health, contact your vet.
If you have any concerns about any incurred injuries or any health problem that you think should require professional medical attention immediately, then don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Dog First Aid Kits
Here are some of the first aid kit must-haves for your dog.
- a muzzle
- roll of gauze
- first aid tape
- vet wrap
- a cream to relieve itchiness brought about by bug bites
- styptic powder
- hydrogen peroxide (to be used only if your vet advises you to do so)
- eyewash solution (in case you need to wash out your dog’s eyes)
- towels and non-stick bandages
- digital thermometer
- milk of magnesia or activated charcoal
- an antiseptic for dogs
- a blanket
- scissors
- tweezers
- plastic gloves
- a multi-purpose animal skin care product (one particular example would be Vetericyn Wound & Skin Care)
This is by no means a definitive list. Many kits on the market include several additional items.
How to Administer First Aid to Your Dog
If your dog has wounds or external bleeding:
- Muzzle your pet first. An injured dog can lash out and bite people, even their owners.
- If it is a small wound, such as a prickle in the paw pad, then you can use your tweezers to gently ease it out if possible.
- If it is a nail clipping wound, you can refer to this article for some great tips on how to stop the nail bleeding.
- If there is an infected wound, refer to the directions on your antiseptic for dogs.
- If it is a small bleeding wound, then with a thick gauze pad, apply pressure over the wound until it starts to clot. Keep applying pressure until the bleeding stops. This can take several minutes.
- For severe wounds with heavy bleeding on the legs, use gauze to apply pressure to the wound while getting to your vet as soon as possible.
It is to be noted that if your dog has severe wounds, you should rush him to the vet ASAP, as the loss of blood is life-threatening
Caution About Poisons
If your pet is poisoned or comes into contact with toxins:
- Immediately check the label of the substance (e.g. cleaning products, antifreeze, etcetera) for first aid instructions. For example, if the bottle instructs you to wash the affected skin area with soapy water, then wash your dog’s skin with soapy water straight away.
- Take note of the name of substance that has been ingested. Your vet will want to have this information.
- A solution of hydrogen peroxide can induce vomiting in situations wherein a dog has ingested a harmful substance. But NEVER decide to induce your dog to vomit on your own. Seek assistance from a veterinarian or a poison control center; they will advise on the best solution for the particular toxin in question. Get your pet veterinary help as soon as possible.
Where to Find Dog First Aid Kits
Dog first aid kits can be purchased easily from pet and online stores.
And a popular version for owners of sporting dogs, is a first aid kit that can be taken on any camping or hiking trip.
But a kit alone is not enough. Make sure that you know exactly what to do for common pet emergencies.
Also, keep a list of important numbers to call like your veterinarian, the local poison control center, and a nearby animal emergency clinic, with your kit at all times.
Featured Image courtesy of gg at www.brightgifts.com