Emergency Pet Preparedness: First Aid Supplies and Tips
Being prepared for pet emergencies and disasters will help
ensure the safety and wellbeing of your furry companions. Having the right
supplies on hand and being informed on first aid allows you to provide critical
care until you can get veterinary treatment.
Table of Contents
·
Creating a Pet First Aid
Kit
·
First Aid Techniques and
Tips
·
Disaster Preparedness
Supplies
·
Emergency Contact
Information
·
Practice Your Plan
·
Frequently Asked
Questions
Creating a Pet First Aid
Kit
Keep a pet first aid kit in an easy to access place in your home
and vehicle. Include:
·
Bandage material - gauze
pads, rolls, tape, non-stick bandages
·
Antiseptic wipes and
antibiotic ointment
·
Scissors, tweezers,
cotton swabs
·
Digital thermometer
suitable for pets
·
Latex gloves
·
Sterile lubricant
·
Saline eye solution
·
Activated charcoal
·
Antihistamine
·
Pet first aid book or
chart
Consult your vet to customize your kit for your pet's needs.
First Aid Techniques and
Tips
Learn how to provide first aid care for common emergencies:
1.
Choking - Clear airway
using canine Heimlich maneuver.
2.
Bleeding - Apply pressure
and elevate area. Bandage wound.
3.
Fractures - Stabilize and
splint limb. Restrict movement.
4.
Shock - Keep warm and
calm. Seek immediate vet care.
5.
Heat stroke - Cool down
gradually. Give small sips of water.
6.
Poisoning - Call animal
poison control. Induce vomiting if instructed.
Only provide first aid within your abilities. Contact your vet
or emergency vet clinic for guidance.
Disaster Preparedness
Supplies
Have at least a 7 day supply of items for your pets:
·
Food - Kibble, canned,
treats. Rotate into use before expiration.
·
Water - Bowls, bottles
for travel. Refresh frequently.
·
Medications - Both
maintenance and emergency meds.
·
Vaccination records
·
Collar with ID tag,
harness, and leash
·
Crate or pet carrier
·
Cat litter, litter box,
waste bags
·
Pet beds and blankets
·
Grooming supplies -
Brush, nail clippers, wipes
·
Toys
Update your kit twice yearly when changing clocks for daylight
savings.
Emergency Contact
Information
Have contact info available for:
·
Your veterinarian
·
Emergency vet clinics
·
Animal poison control
hotline
·
Local animal shelters
·
Family or friends that
can assist
List contacts at beginning of your smartphone and in your
wallet.
Practice Your Plan
Run through emergency scenarios to test your readiness:
1.
Evacuate your home as if
there is a fire or flood.
2.
Pretend roads are blocked
- how will you transport pets?
3.
Simulate giving first aid
to a wounded pet.
4.
Contact emergency
services and your vet clinic.
Identify any gaps in supplies or training to improve
preparedness.
Frequently Asked
Questions
What
items should be in a pet first aid kit?
Essentials are bandages, antiseptics, medical gloves,
thermometer, eye wash, activated charcoal, antihistamine, lubricant, sterile
gauze and tape.
How can
I get my pets used to their crates?
Feed them meals in the crate. Place comfy bedding inside. Reward
with treats for voluntarily entering. Never use the crate for punishment.
What is
the best way to prepare for an evacuation?
Pack supplies and copies of records in an easy to grab bag. Know
alternate routes and shelter locations. Microchip pets in case you are
separated.
Where
should I store pet emergency supplies?
Keep items in an easily accessible place like a hall closet.
Separate car supplies in the trunk. Check expiration dates every 6 months.
Conclusion
Preparing emergency first aid kits, response plans, and disaster
supplies can help pet owners respond effectively during crises. Consult your
vet to customize supplies and training for your pets' needs. Stay informed and
proactive to keep your furry companions safe and healthy even in difficult
circumstances.
