First Aid Essentials for Your Dog

© Mdk572

Sooner of later most dogs have accidents and suffer cuts, bruises, or strains just like us humans! To ensure you are at the ready should an accident happen, it's a good idea to have a doggie 'first aid kit' that you can keep in the bathroom and take with you if you are going away or on a long hike. Here are some suggested essentials you should keep in your first aid kit:

• Saline (in pods) to wash away dirt and debris from your pet's eyes and other areas. 
• Alcohol free cleansing wipes to clean wounds prior to applying dressings. 
• Gauze swabs to use for cleaning up fluid or saline. 
• Dressings of different sizes to cover any injury. 
• Bandages for use around a limb if a sprain is suspected or to cover dressings for extra protection. 
• Microporous tape for holding dressings or bandages in place. 
• Blanket (either regular or a special foil blanket) to retain body warmth and help combat shock. 
• Latex gloves to keep yourself clean and avoid cross contamination. 
• Plastic pouches to cover foot injuries and help keep them clean, fasten with microporous tape 
• A pair of tweezers for removing foreign bodies such as thorns, pieces of glass, ticks etc.
• A pair of scissors 

With this little lot, you should be ready for most eventualities while you are out and about with your hound!

The photograph used in this blog is licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence