September is National Disaster Preparedness Month. As a pet owner, you have an extra responsibility to prep your pet for disaster. A first aid kit that is fully stocked—not only for you but also for your furry friend—is an essential component of your emergency plan. The team at Academy Animal Hospital wants to share how to build a pet first aid kit so you can be prepared for an emergency.
Step 1: Stock up on health care essentials
While your first aid kit is packed full of wound-care essentials and other necessities, you will likely need to add a few items geared toward pet care. Stock your first aid kit in an easy-to-carry, waterproof tote with these supplies:
- Bandage materials, including non-stick gauze pads, self-adhesive wrap, and tape
- Styptic powder
- Triple antibiotic ointment
- Fresh 3% hydrogen peroxide
- Rubbing alcohol
- Milk of magnesia
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- Karo syrup
- Activated charcoal
- Dawn dish soap
- Digital thermometer
- Clean cloths or towels
- Eyedropper or large syringe without needle
- Sterile saline eyewash
- Wound flush
- Diphenhydramine
- Leash
- Muzzle
Add a copy of one of these top pet first aid books to your kit, in case you don’t have internet or cell phone access during an emergency.
Step 2: Refill your pet’s medications
Always include a month’s supply of your pet’s chronic medications, such as anti-inflammatories, thyroid medication, or anti-epileptic medication. Rotate supplies out as needed to prevent expiration, and don’t forget to add a dose of your pet’s heartworm, flea, and tick preventive.
Step 3: Print a copy of your pet’s vaccination records
Keep your pet’s updated vaccination records, medical history, and a current color photo of you and your furry pal together in your first aid kit. If you have to evacuate your home with your pet, you’ll have a handy copy of your four-legged friend’s pertinent information for an emergency veterinary visit or a boarding stay.
With all these essentials packed and ready to go in your pet’s first aid kit, you’ll be prepared for any disaster.
Making sure your pet is current on vaccinations is part of being prepared. Request an appointment.