Do you have a first aid kit handy? Like one you’ve actually checked the contents of in say, I dunno, the last two years?
We all know that we should have one, but it is an easy thing to leave on the “get to it later” list.
April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month and so a more direct question to ask yourself is: Do I have a pet first aid kit in my home and/or car?
The American Red Cross has a great interview on their website with pet care expert Dr. Debbie Mandell that you can check out by clicking here .
Did you know that All Breed Care’s own Kare is certified as a Pet First Aid/CPR Instructor? She's a great resource!
If you’ve never taken the class, I highly recommend it. I’m Red Cross certified in pet first aid and CPR and I can attest to the quality of the course. It is always humbling to try to inflate the lungs of a stuffed cat or dog and recognize how much work it is to perform CPR.
In addition to the courses, the Red Cross offers several apps that can help you navigate situations. Check them out by clicking here .
The American Veterinarian Medical Association has a checklist and a brochure that you can download from their website: https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/emergencycare/pet-first-aid-supplies-checklist
A quick list of items to consider, though we recommend you tailor it to your specific situation, include:
Phone numbers for your vet, the emergency vet, and the pet poison hotline
Gauze
Nonstick bandages, cloth strips or towels.
Adhesive tape for bandaging (human bandages are not recommended)
Milk of magnesium or activated charcoal
Hydrogen peroxide
Digital Thermometer
Leash
Muzzle