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Pet first aid kits

Pet first aid kits are relatively straightforward, because, for the most part, they contain the same items that you would have on hand for yourself. However, a few pet-specific items are good to have as well.

Here is a list of the basic things that I would recommend that you have in any pet first aid kit. Think along the lines of a small kit that you could easily transport with you on a walk. Many kits that you can purchase through Amazon or Chewy (or other places) contain most of these items.

Pet First Aid

Basic kit:

  • 2” x 2” and 4” x 4” Gauze pads

  • Gauze bandage rolls

  • First aid tape

  • Self-adhesive bandage wrap

  • Saline wound wash (no sting type)

  • Insect sting pads

  • Bandage scissors

  • Eye wash

  • Metal tweezers

  • Antiseptic wipes/towelettes

  • Wound gel or first aid cream

  • Antibiotic ointment

  • Small bottle of hand sanitizer

For a more extensive kit that would cover more situations (and not necessarily be portable), I would recommend adding the following. You may never need some of these items, but if you want to be prepared for almost anything, keep them in mind.

  • Tick remover

  • Thermometer

  • Styptic pencil (for small cut, scratches, or abrasions)

  • Wood tongue depressors (for emergencies to check the airway)

  • Slip lead leash

  • Bleed stop (like liquid bandage only faster working and without the stinging)

  • Mini flashlight

  • Cotton swabs/cotton balls

  • Vinyl gloves

  • Emergency muzzle

  • Paw balm

  • Emergency thermal blanket

  • Instant ice pack

  • Fly repellent spray (can be used for horses or dogs)

We carry everything listed above in our kits. Obviously, one would hope that they never have the need to use pet first aid, but you can never be too careful when it comes to your furry or furless friends (animal or human!).

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