Dog First Aid Kit Essentials: What to Include for Emergencies

Before taking your dog on any adventures this summer, you should be prepared with a dog first aid kit. Accidents happen, and you’ll want to have the necessary supplies in the case of an illness or injury. Today, I’m sharing everything you should include in your dog first aid kit to keep Fido safe.

Where Should You Keep Your Dog First Aid Kit?

You should always keep your first aid kit where it’ll be most accessible. Keep one in your home and another in your car for emergencies on the road. Always bring a first aid kit with you on adventures such as hikes or vacations. If your dog is there, a first aid kit should be as well.

Dog First Aid Kit Essentials

These 15 essentials should always be handy in your dog first aid kit. Keep them all together in a small, portable bag. 

1. Gauze: for covering wounds
2. Liquid Bandage: for sealing open wounds
3. Styptic Powder: to quickly clot bleeding nails or ears
4. Vet Wrap: for splinting
5. Adhesive Tape: to secure bandaging
6. Scissors: to cut bandaging, stuck collars, etc.
7. Tweezers: to remove ticks, thorns, etc.
8. Hydrogen Peroxide: to clean wounds or induce vomiting
9. Antibiotic Ointment: for open wounds
10. Portable Water Bowl: bring some extra water along too in the case of dehydration
11. Oral Syringe: to administer medication
12. Benadryl: for allergic reactions (give 1mg for every 1 pound; 25mg=25 pound dog)
13. Towel: to wrap wounds, cleanup messes, or dry off a wet dog
14. Muzzle: even the calmest dog can become aggressive when injured
15. Slip Lead: in case you lose or break your dogs leash (an extra collar is a good idea as well)

Other Helpful Supplies

You can’t add too much to your first aid kit. If you think it may be helpful in case of an emergency, add it. Some other supplies that you can include in your first aid kit are: 

• Paper Towels
• Vet and Vaccine Records
• Emergency Contact Numbers
• Flashlight
• Saline Solution
• Thermometer
• Cotton Balls

Pre-Made First Aid Kits

You can purchase pre-made first aid kits online or at pet stores. These kits are convenient and come stocked with the necessary supplies. 

Note: always be alert when on a trip or adventure with your pup. Keep an eye out for potential threats and be sure to act fast in the case of an emergency. Always try to consult a veterinarian before administering medicine or performing any type of procedure on your furry friend. 

This post contains affiliate links. All opinions are my own.