First Aid for Dogs

First Aid Supplies for Dogs 

A medical emergency can happen at any time, whether you're at home, running errands, or on the road. To be prepared for these situations, you should always carry a dog first-aid kit with you.

 

This checklist will help you put together a first-aid kit for your dog in case of a medical emergency or health issue. In addition to these items, ensure that you include important paperwork, such as a copy of your dog's medical records, vaccination records, and emergency telephone numbers for their veterinarian.

It is important to keep the kit well out of reach of small hands and paws, and to check it regularly for any expired items or low supplies.

Gauze, Cotton Wool, Bandages & Tape

Absorbent gauze pads can be used to stop bleeding or can be used as bandages in a pinch. You can use absorbent cotton balls to apply medicine to wounds or to clean scrapes and cuts on your pup. Keep gauze or cotton wool securely in place with a bandage. Self-adhesive bandages are handy as they stick to themselves and don't require the use of tape to secure. 

 

If you don’t have self-adhesive bandages or the area is not suitable to use a bandage on, you are going to need medical tape to secure the gauze or cotton wool to the area. Look for a tape that is hypoallergenic to avoid irritating the skin.

Antiseptics & Antibacterials 

An antiseptic solution such as Betadine is great for cleaning wounds and scrapes. After the wound has been cleaned, apply an antibacterial spray or ointment such as Betadine or Wound-Gard to keep infection at bay.

Thermometer, Scissors, Tweezer, Torch & Magnifying Glass

Your dog can get a temperature if they are unwell, just like a human does. A thermometer is the fastest way to tell if your dog is running a fever, just remember, dogs are typically a little warmer than humans and their temperature should be between 37.9–39.9 C.

 

Scissors, tweezers, a torch and a magnifying glass are always a handy addition to your dog's first aid kit. You can use the scissors to trim gauze, or cut tape or bandages. The magnifying glass and torch can help you to see the tiniest of splinters which you can use the tweezers to remove.

Syringes, Towels & Blankets

If you need to give your dog a liquid medicine, you can use a syringe to draw up the dose accurately. They are also handy when you need to irrigate a wound using a saline solution and come in a variety of sizes.

 

We suggest keeping a clean towel and/or blanket in your dog’s first aid kit. If your dog is overheating, you can wet the towel to cool them down. Conversely, in cold weather, they may need a blanket to help keep them warm.

Muzzle, Collar & Leash

If your dog is injured, it may become frantic and could lash out at anyone. A muzzle will help to keep everyone nearby or handling your dog safe.

 

Having an extra collar and leash around is always a good idea. Dogs have been known to snap leashes and collars in accidents, and if you happen upon a lost or stray animal while out and about, it can help you to get them safely to the nearest vet or town.

Bowl & Food

Having a spare or collapsible bowl is useful in emergency and non-emergency situations alike. Whether you are on a long hike, a day trip or even if you are just down the road, you should always have a spare bowl with you to be able to offer your dog water. 

 

Whenever you leave home with your dog, make sure to bring a spare bottle of water, just in case you don't have access to any. It doesn't hurt to pack some spare food or treats either. In an emergency, you may be able to distract your dog with treats, or even just to reward them for being brave.

 

Styptic Powder or Gel

There is a good chance you’ve already got styptic powder or gel around your house. It is great for stopping bleeding if you’ve accidentally cut your dog's nails too short. You can also apply it to superficial cuts and scrapes to stop bleeding. 

Disposable Gloves and Handwash

Whenever you are dealing with bodily fluids, whether they are human or not, you are going to want to protect yourself. Always wear gloves when cleaning your dog's wounds. It will also help to stop bacteria from getting into the wound. Before and after cleaning your dog's wounds, wash your hands with an antiseptic handwash such as Microshield to kill any lurking bacteria.

Buy Your Dog First Aid Supplies Online

Here at VetProductsDirect, we’ve got a huge range of first aid supplies to stock up your first aid kit for your dog. We stock top brands such as Microshield, Betadine and the BD range of needles and syringes. 

Not sure what products you need in your dog's first aid kit? Our highly trained customer service staff and veterinary nurses are able to help! Just give them a call during business hours (9am-5pm AEST Monday to Friday) on 1300 838 776 or you can email [email protected] and someone will respond to your enquiry as soon as possible