Pet emergencies in Northwest Arkansas are impossible to predict and when they occur you may not have the time to search for the right remedy or the tools that you may need. Time becomes critical and what you do quickly can even be the difference between life and death. Always be prepared for the most common injuries and have the necessary supplies and medicines to use at even a moment’s notice.
First aid kits can be purchased at many pet supply stores or can be ordered online, but you can also create your own.
Here are some key essential elements that should be included in your pet first aid kit:
- Your Fayetteville, AR veterinarian’s phone number.
- Phone number of the nearest emergency veterinary clinic and directions on how to get there.
- Poison control hotline number. (ASPCA Poison Control 1-800-426-4435)
- Pet first aid book
- Paperwork (in a waterproof container or bag): proof of rabies vaccination status, copies of other important medical records, your pet’s baseline temperature and weight and a current photo of your pet in case he gets lost.
- Self-cling bandage (Stretches and sticks to itself but not to fur—available at pet stores and through pet supply catalogs)
- Muzzle or strips of cloth to prevent biting (as long as pet is not vomiting, choking, coughing, or otherwise having difficulty breathing)
Basic Supplies
- Sterile gauze pads and Tefla pads, various sizes
- Adhesive or bandage tape
- Antiseptic wipes, lotion, powder or spray
- Clean towel or blanket
- Blunt scissors
- Cotton balls or swabs
- Non-latex disposable gloves
- Petroleum jelly (to lubricate thermometer)
- Rectal thermometer (your pet’s temperature should not rise above 103°F or fall below 100°F)
- Sterile saline contact lens solution (to flush wounds)
- Tweezers
Common Pet Medicine Cabinet Items
- 3% Hydrogen peroxide (to induce vomiting)
- Toxiban or activated charcoal preparation (used for poisoning)
- Benadryl® or diphenhydramine (used to treat allergic reactions)
- Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate (for upset stomach)
- Neosporin or topical antibacterial ointment (for surface wounds)
- Isopropyl alcohol (used for ear infections, overheating)
- Buffered aspirin (for pain DOGS ONLY!)
- Oral Dose Syringe (gives accurate liquid doses)
- Pill Gun (used to get a pill down less cooperative pets)
- Pill Splitter (helps you cut large tablets into equal portions if your pet requires a smaller dose)
Other Useful Items
- Pillowcase to confine your cat for treatment
- Expired credit card or sample credit card (from direct mail credit card offers) to scrape away insect stingers
- Glucose paste or corn syrup (for diabetic dogs or those with low blood sugar)
- Nail clippers
- Needle-nosed pliers
- Penlight or flashlight
- Plastic eyedropper or syringe
- Splints and tongue depressors
- Styptic powder or pencil (sold at veterinary hospitals and pet supply stores and your local pharmacy)
In addition to the items listed above, include any items recommended by your Fayetteville, AR veterinarian specifically for your pet. Check the supplies in your pet first aid kit occasionally. Replace any items that have expired.
For your family’s safety, keep all medical supplies and medications out of the reach of children and pets.
