What to put in your pet first aid kit

All we want for our pets is for them to be safe, healthy and happy. Unfortunately, accidents and emergencies can happen at any time, and it's essential to be prepared for the unexpected.

Here's the good news: having a solid first aid kit on hand can be an absolute game-changer. Whether dealing with a minor scrape or a more serious injury, having the right supplies can make all the difference in your pet's well-being and offer peace of mind.

We consulted the help of Dr Rosalind Holland (BVSc, MVM, MANZCVS), who lists the essentials of what you need to have in your pet first aid kit.

Essential pet first aid: Basics and key tools

First and foremost, the key to your pet's safety in an emergency is accessing professional veterinary care as soon as possible. Dr Holland’s key advice is to have a plan to access vet care at any hour. Larger cities often have emergency centres for after-hours care, but smaller areas may need to rely on a regular veterinary clinic's after-hours service.

However, in some situations, that may not be immediately available or reachable. That's where pet first aid comes in.

Essential pet first aid encompasses both knowledge and the right tools to effectively handle minor injuries or health issues until professional help is available.

At the very least, every pet owner should be familiar with how to clean wounds, control bleeding, and recognise signs of distress in their pets. For in-depth knowledge, you can take a pet first aid course in your local area. Not only will this help your own pets, but you can support your community by being trained in disaster response.

How to prepare a pet first aid kit

Putting together a pet first aid kit doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. You can purchase a pre-made kit from your local pet store or veterinarian, but it's also easy and cost-effective to assemble one yourself.

Creating a pet first aid kit isn't just about collecting items; it's about understanding how to use them effectively. Here are the essentials, as outlined by Dr Holland:

Wound and injury care

Accidents happen; when they do, it's crucial to have the right supplies to address injuries promptly. These are some of the suggestions from Dr Holland:

• Wound flush (sterile saline): Use this to clean wounds gently.
• Primary dressing (sterile gauze or similar): Protects the wound from infection and helps the healing process.
• Crepe bandage: For wrapping wounds securely.
• Self-adhesive bandage: Ideal for securing dressings without needing tape. (Dr Holland advises having all bandage applications assessed by a vet or nurse promptly to avoid compression injuries.)
• Tape: Essential for securing dressings and bandages.
• Scissors: For cutting dressings, tape, and bandages to size.

Handling and transport

Dr Holland says, "Most commercial pet first aid kits include items to help with the treatment of wounds… Although these items are useful, it's also important to include items to help with handling and transporting an animal who may be very scared in an emergency."

Injured pets can be unpredictable and may need careful handling. Here's what you'll need:

• Transport crate: Keep a small one in the car if possible.
• Large towel: Helps to scoop up smaller animals safely.
• Muzzle or bandage: Essential for preventing bites from scared pets.
• Slip lead: Easy to apply and control a nervous dog.

Helpful extras

These items might not be immediately necessary but can be incredibly helpful in specific situations, as recommended by Dr Holland:

• Disposable gloves: To keep things hygienic.
• Bag for rubbish: For disposing of used dressings and other waste.
• Collapsible water bowl: Useful for hydrating pets during emergencies.
• Thermal blanket: Great for keeping pets warm if they're in shock or cold.

Understanding pet emergencies

Recognising pet emergencies is vital for ensuring timely and effective care for your companions. Noticing the signs when something is wrong will play a huge part in the outcome of your pet's well-being.

Key signs of an emergency include:

• Difficulty breathing or choking
• Excessive or persistent bleeding
• Seizures or collapse
• Unconsciousness
• Ingestion of toxic substances (e.g. chocolate, medication, household cleaners)
• Sudden lameness or inability to move

These are some of the more obvious signs, but pets can often exhibit subtle signs that something is wrong, and understanding these more subtle cues can be crucial in catching an emergency early. Some common signs of illness or injury include:

• Swelling or bloating: This can indicate internal bleeding or blockages
• Vomiting or diarrhoea: Especially if it is persistent or contains blood
• Lethargy or weakness: This can be a sign of many different health issues
• Lack of appetite or refusal to eat: Another common indication of illness

If your pet exhibits any unusual behaviours, it's always better to err on the side of caution and consult with a veterinarian. In emergencies, every minute counts, so don't hesitate to seek professional help if you're concerned about your pet's well-being.

Tools and tips for emergencies from Dr Holland

To access vet assistance quickly, look up your nearest emergency facilities and keep phone numbers and addresses nearby. Dr Holland recommends calling ahead in an emergency, which allows the clinic to prepare for your arrival and advise you on any immediate first-aid steps to take.

It's also helpful to have all your pet's medical records easily accessible, especially during an emergency. Keep a digital copy on your phone or in a cloud storage system, and update it regularly with any changes in medication or health conditions.

Know you’re protected

So, stay prepared and informed, and give your pets the best chance at a healthy and happy life with you by their side. Keep these tips handy, and always be ready to take action if needed. Another way to support your pet is to have the right insurance in place for their safety, in case something happens. Consider taking out cover with SPCA Pet Insurance so that your furry friend is protected.