Do you have a first-aid kit for Fido?

April is National Pet First-Aid Awareness Month - a month we dedicate to teaching fellow pet parents about providing emergency care to their animals when necessary.

With spring in full bloom and warmer weather, pets are more likely to be outside with the family hiking, boating or camping, so the risks of accidents can increase. Even if you keep your pets indoors, injuries from accidental falls or other medical situations can occur. Being prepared can save precious minutes when you need them the most. 

When in remote areas with your pets, always carry a pet first-aid kit stocked and ready to go. If you already have one, make sure the supplies are not expired and that you know how to use them.  It also important to know some basic emergency procedures like the Heimlich maneuver and CPR. If you don't know these procedures, ask your veterinarian. Veterinarians are usually happy to educate you on the proper way to perform these types of procedures on your own pet.

Here are some items to include in a kit:

• Absorbent gauze pads
• Adhesive tape
• Cotton balls or swabs
• Disposable gloves
• Scissors with blunt end
• Tweezers
• OTC antibiotic ointment
• Oral syringe or turkey baster
• Liquid dishwashing detergent (for bathing)
• Towel
• Small flashlight
• Alcohol wipes
• Styptic powder
• Saline eye solution
• Phone number, clinic name, address of your veterinarian as well as local veterinary emergency clinics.