In an emergency situation you are your pets' best hope of survival. Being prepared could save your pets' life. The information that we are providing here should not be considered replacement of care by qualified medical professionals. This information is provided to help you keep your animal alive long enough to get it the appropriate care.
We highly recommend that you have a first aid kit available. If you travel frequently with your pet a second kit in your vehicle or in an otherwise convenient place would be advisable. In addition the kit should be easily accessible by someone else in the event that you are injured and cannot help your pet directly. The kit should be easily identifiable from any side. The kit should include any pertinent medical information about you and your pet, include allergies or other medical conditions, such as diabetes, epilepsy, etc. Age and weights are highly recommended to properly gauge dosing of any medications. If possible prepare a sheet with proper dosages ahead of time and have it in your first aid kit. A cellular phone or other means of communication with emergency services would be advisable. The name and phone number for a person to contact in an emergency, name and phone number for your physician and your veterinarian should be included. Also keep a copy of your pets vaccination records (especially rabies) in the kit. If you engage in activities or live in areas that might result in unusual emergencies (such as snake bites) for you or your pet you should prepare your kit accordingly. If you have the room available a book or pamphlet on veterinary first aid would be advisable.
First Aid kits are available in some stores (check with your local pharmacy) or you can make your own. If you choose to make your own you can use either a fish tackle box or an artists drawing box. Both come with dividers inside to keep the various supplies neat. Using labels, decals, or tape, clearly mark the outside of the box as to what it is. Mark the sides of the box as well.
Here is a list of the materials that you should have in your first aid kit:
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Here is a list of medicines (and approximate dosages) that you should consider keeping in your first aid kit.
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Remember - do not medicate your pet without consulting your vet as to the safety of particular medicines for your animal and the proper dosages for your size pet. Consult your vet BEFORE an emergency occurs to get dosages for your pet and keep that information in the first aid kit where it will be readily available in an emergency and you can save time by not having to calculate dosages or risk making mistakes.
Any medications kept in your kit should be replaced regularly to ensure freshness. We would recommend going through the kit on at least an annual basis. Check expiration dates on any medications in your kit and replace as necessary, replace any used supplies such as band-aids.