How to Make a Pet First Aid Kit

A first-aid kit is important not only in the event of a natural disaster, but any time a pet is far away from immediate help – for example when the family takes the pet camping or on vacation out of the area.

Help make sure your adopters and veterinary clients are prepared in the event of an unexpected pet emergency with this do-it-yourself first-aid kit, recommended by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.

Your Kit Should Contain

• Absorbent gauze pads
• Adhesive tape
• Cotton balls or swabs
• Fresh 3% hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting (always check with veterinarian or animal poison control expert before giving to your pet)
• Ice pack
• Disposable gloves
• Scissors with blunt end
• Tweezers
• OTC antibiotic ointment
• Oral syringe or turkey baster
• Liquid dishwashing detergent (for bathing)
• Towels
• Small flashlight
• Alcohol wipes
• Styptic powder
• Saline eye solution
• Artificial tear gel
• Phone number, clinic name, address of your veterinarian as well as local veterinary emergency clinics.  

Make sure to check your pack every few months to make sure nothing has expired or needs to be replaced. And of course keep your kit out of the reach of children.