How to Assemble a Pet First Aid Kit

Hopefully you never need it. But if you do…  

Okaaaay, so no one likes to think about needing a first aid kit for their pet. But what’s worse than that? Not having one around in an emergency, of course.

We’ve got you covered with a handy checklist of items to create your own kit. Keep everything in a duffle bag or backpack, store it an easily accessible spot, and bring it along if you travel or camp with your pet.

We also recommend taking an animal first aid class at your local community college or vet clinic (hands-on practice is everything). And checkout the (free!) Pet First Aid app by the American Red Cross, which offers tons of information about what to do in emergencies.

Of course, nothing replaces a good relationship with your vet. But being prepared for the unpredictable can help when you need it most. Here we go!

For Cuts or Wounds

• Absorbent gauze pads

• Adhesive tape

• Alcohol wipes

• Hydrogen peroxide

• Bandage tape

• Cotton balls or swabs

• Ice pack

• Non-latex disposable gloves

• Scissors with blunt end or bandage scissors

• Tweezers

• Antibiotic ointment

• Iodine solution

• Eyedropper

For Bathing

• Liquid dishwashing detergent

• Towels

• Sterile saline

• Wet wipes

• Artificial tear gel

For Comfort

• Blanket

• Collapsible travel food and water bowls

• Serving of food and bottle of water

• Comfort item (like an old toy)

  
  

For Everything Else

• Small flashlight

• Collar with ID tags

• Leash

• Poop bags

• Contact card with your name and number plus your vet’s name, number and address

• Vaccination records

• Backup supply of prescription medication

Got a pet question for our blog experts to answer? Email us at support@halopets.com and we’ll get to work 🐾