To prepare for any mishaps at home or away, collect the following to make sure you’re prepared as possible for any experience:
– Bandaging: Non-adhesive pads, gauze, and self-adhesive wrap are essential in your go-bag. Please keep in mind, none of these materials should include an adhesive element that will stick to your dog’s fur and cause irritation or be difficult to remove. Pet stores commonly carry dog-friendly gauze.
– Ointment: Consider keeping first aid or antibacterial ointment in your go-bag. Antibacterial ointments made for humans can also be used on dogs with minor cuts and scrapes. If your pup tries to lick off the ointment, cover the area with non-stick gauze and wrap with self-adhesive wrap. If your dog continues to access the wound, a cone collar may be an item to keep on hand as well.
– Ear Cleaning Solution: If you are headed to the beach, the backyard, or any location where your dog will get wet or will need to take a bath, keeping a non-irritating ear cleanser on hand is crucial. Dogs’ ears are constructed of twists and turns in the skin which makes it easy to contract bacteria and infection. Keeping the area clean will maintain your pup’s overall health.
– Saline Solution: When you take your dog on vacation or if they are feeling extra playful outside, there are a variety of things to dig into, and run through, and smell. This may cause a buildup of dirt, sand, or bacteria in or near their eyes. Oftentimes, dogs will try to paw at their eyes in an attempt to remove the buildup themselves. Basic saline solution, the same as what would be used for humans, is an ideal product to help clear out dogs’ eyes. This can be found at almost any pharmacy and is sold as an over-the-counter product.
– Up-to-Date Paperwork: Important paperwork can be kept in the first aid kit for easy accessibility. This file should include your dog’s vaccine records, regular veterinarian’s contact information, a preorganized list of local emergency veterinarians (if away from home), a list of regular medications, allergies, and the pet poison center phone number.
– Photos of Your Dog: In the event your dog gets away from you and you find yourself without access to your cell phone or other technology, keep a recent photo or two of your dog(s) printed in your go-bag.
– Bedding & Toys: Your pup may want to get their wiggles out during long travel days or simply need a new toy to play with at home. Preoccupy them with casual plush toys and brain games to keep their minds stimulated while on the road. Their bedding will be useful after a day of play AND to gain a sense of familiarity when sleeping away from home.
– Leash: Ensure your pup will always be by your side by packing a spare leash in your go-bag when on the road, but as a reminder, please keep your dog leashed at all times to prevent any accidents or issues.
