Create your own doggy first aid kit.
Many minor injuries can be self-treated with proper knowledge and equipment. These supplies can be used to help in a pinch until you can get to a veterinarian.
Here is what Animal Medical Center in New York recommends for your kit:
Tweezers: For splinter or foreign object removal
Nail trimmer: Ask your local pet supply store for the style of trimmer right for your pet.
Scissors: Handy for hair clumps and foreign object tangles. Take special care not to cut the skin – this can be accidentally done.
Betadine Sponges: For cleaning of cuts and wounds, to be used with an antibacterial cleanser
Sterile Vaseline for eyes: If you're bathing your pet, this will prevent soap and water from getting in their eyes
Saline Solution: Regular human contact lens saline solution can be used to flush out dirt, sand, or other irritant - just gently squeeze the contents directly into the eye.
Peroxide: To only be used to induce vomiting when Animal Poison Control says to do so. You should call Animal Poison Control when your dog or cat has consumed something from the "no" list. Not to be used for cleaning wounds.
Triple antibiotic ointment: To place directly on a cut
Sterile telpha pads (no stick): Sticky bandages and fur don't mix. Wrap the wound with the nonadherent pads before placing on the bandage.
Bandages
Remember, proper immediate first-aid is only the first step in the treatment of a dog injury or emergency. While your intervention may prevent serious harm, you must always seek veterinary care as soon as possible to assure the best outcome for your companion.
