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Are You Prepared for a Pet Emergency?

pet-first-aid-585Before I had human kids, my pug was my child. Totally spoiled rotten. Even now that my attention is divided, I love my dog a freaking ridiculous amount. (How do you not love that face? That’s her at right.)

Because furry family members are people, too, we wanted to share these tips with you from the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS). NAPPS (rather appropriate name, no?) is dedicated to promoting the welfare of animals, and we thought it was a great idea to pass along this message of pet safety and encourage pet parents to create first aid kits in order to be prepared for pet emergencies.

Because pet accidents do happen, pet owners should have a first aid kit and establish a safety plan for handling pet-related accidents and emergencies. Pet parents are also encouraged to create a check list to help their children, in the event that they are dealing with a pet accident on their own. Preparing your family to respond to pet emergencies will help reduce panic and increase the likelihood of a positive outcome.

Items for a Pet First Aid Kit

  • Phone numbers for your veterinarian, emergency veterinary clinic, Animal Poison Control Center (there may be a fee for this call)
  • Gauze for wrapping wounds
  • Nonstick bandages, towels or strips of clean cloth to control bleeding or protect wounds
  • Adhesive tape for bandages for securing gauze wrap
  • Milk of magnesia or activated charcoal to absorb poison
  • Hydrogen peroxide (3 percent) to induce vomiting
  • Digital fever thermometer to check temperature
  • Eye dropper to give oral treatments or flush wound
  • Muzzle to cover your pet’s head, only if he or she is not vomiting
  • Leash to transport your pet if he or she can walk without further injury

Pet accidents can happen when you least expect them. A walk in the park can result in an allergic reaction to a bee sting or a romp with another pet can turn unfriendly or dangerous. Pet parents can take a pet first aid course from the American Red Cross to prepare.



Are your pets family, too? Do you have a pet first aid kit handy, just in case? —Erin

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