Accidents can occur at any time. Those who have encountered an emergency can tell you that it’s important to prepare yourself before you’re confronted with an accident or sudden illness. A pet first aid kit is the first step in being prepared should an animal emergency happen. Many situations require quick action to prevent further injury. By assembling a first aid kit now, you’ll be ready when your Labradoodle needs immediate help.
Always be prepared
Everyone who shares a home with a Labradoodle should have a basic pet first aid kit on hand. If you frequently travel, you may consider putting together a second kit for the car. Pet first aid kits should be stored in a secure location. For your family’s safety, it’s important to keep all medical supplies and medications out of reach of children and pets.
Starting your first aid kit
Are you starting your pet first aid kit from scratch? You can purchase complete pet first aid kits online or at a pet supply store. You can also buy a first aid kit designed for people and add pet-specific items to it. However, you can easily assemble your own kit by gathering the items listed below:
50x4 inch gauze sponges
Triple antibiotic ointment
Rubbing alcohol
A 2 ounce ear syringe
A 3-inch wide Ace self-adhering athletic bandage
Petroleum jelly
Eye wash
Sterile, non-adherent pads
Pepto Bismol tablets
25 mg Benadryl capsules for allergies
1% Hydrocortisone acetate cream
Hydrogen peroxide
Maximum strength Kaopectate tablets
Scissors
Custom splints
Vet Rap bandage
Blankets
Tweezers
Health records and medications
In addition to these items, be sure to include any materials your veterinarian recommends. You may also want to think about taking a pet first aid class. Classes are readily available online and through community educational centers, libraries, pet stores, and sometimes even your local veterinarian.
Always keep a list of important phone numbers available in case of an emergency. These numbers should include your regular veterinarian, the local animal emergency clinic, and the number for the SPCA animal poison control center, which can be reached at 888-426-4435. Finally, check your pet first aid kit regularly to replace any items that have expired.
Handling a medical emergency
If an emergency occurs, take a moment to fully assess the situation. Carefully approach your Labradoodle and determine his condition. If your dog is bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound immediately. Always handle sick or injured dogs carefully. Even the gentlest Labradoodle may bite due to fear or pain. Use a calm, soothing voice to reassure your dog. If your Labradoodle is too heavy to carry, you can use a large board, sled, or blanket for transportation.
Lastly, remember that pet first aid is not a substitute for expert veterinary care. It’s simply meant to stabilize your Labradoodle until proper veterinary care can be administered. All pet first aid should be immediately followed by a trip to the veterinary or emergency clinic. If you have any questions about preparing a pet first aid kit, be sure to contact your veterinarian.
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