One of my jobs is screening medical calls from fosters and adopters…and my first piece of advise is always going to be to seek advise from your veterinarian. Part of why I believe it is important to have a regular veterinarian.. so you can build a relationship so they know your pet and their history.. but that is a story for another day.

Like humans pets can find themselves in need of some First Aid.. sometimes this is for a minor boo boo and other times it may be triage till so you can get to the Emergency Clinic. Your First Aid kit can also be helpful if you ever have to evacuate. If you look online there are many really good kits you can pre purchase and information on how to assemble your own Pet First Aid Kit. Either way there are some things you should always have on hand.

The HSUS Has a list /a> of items they suggest you have on hand in your kit.

  • Phone numbers: your veterinarian, the nearest emergency-veterinary clinic (along with directions!) and a poison-control center or hotline (such as the ASPCA poison-control center, which can be reached at 1-800-426-4435)
  • I also recommend the phone number and directions to the nearest Emergency clinic.
  • Paperwork for your pet (in a waterproof container or bag): proof of rabies-vaccination status, copies of other important medical records and a current photo of your pet (in case he gets lost)
  • Nylon leash
  • Self-cling bandage (bandage that stretches and sticks to itself but not to fur—available at pet stores and from pet-supply catalogs)
  • Muzzle or strips of cloth to prevent biting (don’t use this if your pet is vomiting, choking, coughing or otherwise having difficulty breathing)
  • and many more…

And believe it or not, YES there is an APP for that Pet First Aid App/a> by the American Red Cross.
Pet First Aid App Features:

  • Convenient toggle between cat and dog content.
  • Simple step-by-step instructions guide you through everyday emergencies in the palm of your hand.
  • Prepare and protect your pet’s health with advice on administering medication, time to say goodbye, behavioral help and how to act in a disaster situation.
  • Early warning sign checker for preventive care.
  • Programmable veterinary contact number to be available when needed throughout the app.

So be prepared in hopes you will never need it