Pet First Aid Checklist
First Aid Checklist
You can easily put together a well-stocked pet first aid kit using a waterproof container that opens and closes easily. Print out this checklist and keep within reach:
- Veterinarian's contact information: have numbers for both your family veterinarian and an after-hours emergency veterinarian readily available
- Scissors: for cutting hair and bandages
- Tweezers: for removing objects from skin or paws
- Eyedropper: to dispense liquid medication or clean superficial wounds
- Gloves: to help protect you and keep the wound sanitary
- Gauze pads: for cleaning injuries
- Gauze rolls: to wrap around wounds or use as a safety muzzle
- Soft muzzle: to prevent your pet from biting you or chewing on an injury while in pain
- E-collar: available in a variety of sizes, this opaque or clear plastic, cone-shaped protector attaches to your pet's collar and can be found at veterinary clinics and pet stores. Prevents your pet from accessing a wound or injury
- Alcohol prep pads: to sterilize items such as scissors or tweezers
- Cold pack: to reduce swelling or pain
- Digital thermometer: to find out if your pet is running a fever (a mercury thermometer can shatter)
- Hydrogen peroxide: to clean a wound
- Rags or rubber tubing: to use as a tourniquet
- Blanket or towel: to wrap around injured pet, carry an injured pet and provide warmth
Rabies Recommendation
Animals in pain may bite you. It is critical that you can provide evidence of your pet’s rabies vaccination at all times. Depending on state regulations, a pet without proof of current rabies vaccination may be quarantined.
Disaster Preparedness
A natural disaster can strike at any time, no matter where you live. Whether an earthquake, storm or wild fire threatens your home, prepare for your pet’s well-being with a few weeks’ worth of food stored in an easy-to-grab container plus an ample supply of water. It’s one less thing to worry about while getting your family to a safe place.
Further Reading:
A Survival Tail
“Nikki,” a 7-year-old dog living in Southern California, fractured her leg and suffered a puncture wound while on a camping trip with her family.
Be the First to Aid Your Pet
Even Fido and Fluffy can become ill. It's important that you stabilize your pet before you head to the veterinary clinic. Do you know what to do?
Curious Behavior
Your pet is acting odd, but you’re not sure what’s wrong. Knowing your pet’s vital signs can help your veterinarian assess his condition.
Survey, Secure, Stat!
Learn warning signs and the best way to prevent your pet from causing further injury.
Choking Hazards
It's possible for dogs to ingest a toy, a small object—or even food that may lead to choking. What should you do if this happens?
Learn more about VPI Pet Insurance:
Dog insurance, Cat insurance, What’s covered, Get a quote
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