I always grab a dedicated bag that I put together as Bugsy's emergency kit when we go out somewhere (well other than for our morning walk here in the neighborhood). He is so active and we go out on trails and to rivers and lakes that come equipped with poisonous snakes, slippery rocks and goodness knows what else that I felt a little better having some medical supplies at the ready.
Please consider putting one together for your dog, here are some tips from DogAge, you can find more info by doing a simple search for dog first aid kits.
One thing no one should travel without but isn't listed here is Benadryl, you should have both liquid and capsules at the ready. The liquid is absorbed faster but impossible to use for big dogs like Bugsy because the dose is so small.
For reference Benadryl should be dosed at 1-2mg per pound of body weight. The 2mg/lb is the emergency dose.
What's In Your Pooch's First-Aid Kit?
Originally published on August 06, 2009
Like parents tending to kids' skinned knees, most dog owners will occasionally have to nurse their pets' scrapes, scuffs, or other minor injuries. Yep, accidents happen. But you can make such mishaps more manageable by following the old scouting motto: Be prepared. That means having a well-stocked first-aid kit on hand at all times. Don't have one? Pick up a waterproof plastic box, and stock it with these essentials:
1. Vital Stats -- Write down your dog's name, breed, and date of birth; any medical conditions and allergies he has; and any medications he's taking (including doses). If he's been microchipped, jot down the number. Also include your home address and phone number; your vet's name and phone number; and your emergency vet clinic's phone number.
2. Important Records -- Make photocopies of important health records, including vaccinations, and seal them in a plastic bag inside your kit.
3. Basic Supplies -- Fill the rest of your kit with alcohol wipes, gauze, cotton balls, nonstick bandages, hydrogen peroxide, scissors, adhesive tape, cotton swabs, tweezers, an eyedropper, hand sanitizer or soap, a digital thermometer, a pair of latex gloves, and a tube of both topical first-aid cream and antibiotic ointment.
Also, look into taking a pet first-aid class. After all, learning how to handle accidents is the best way to help your dog live younger.
