When we have children in the house, we know we need to keep a first-aid kit handy – but do you keep a first-aid kit near for those accidents that can happen to your pet?
Probably the most important thing for you to have is your vet's number, in a prominent position, where you can find it straight away.
When we have children in the house, we know we need to keep a first-aid kit handy – but do you keep a first-aid kit near for those accidents that can happen to your pet?
Probably the most important thing for you to have is your vet's number, in a prominent position, where you can find it straight away.
In your pet's first-aid kit, you should have:
* A rectal thermometer. Please ask your vet to show you how to use this and what your pet's base line temperature is – a normal temperature for a dog can vary between 37 to 40 degrees Celsius, depending on factors such as level of excitement.
* Nail clippers. Please ask for advice on how to use these.
* A soft strip of cotton sheeting or gauze bandage, around 75cm long. This can be used as a muzzle if your dog is in pain and snaps at you when you touch him. In this case, loop the bandage around your dog's nose, tie it under his chin and bring the ends back to tie behind his head. Make sure you tie this with an easy to release bow – and do not muzzle your dog if he is struggling to breathe.
* Cotton wool. This can be used for cleaning wounds and also to stop bleeding. A thick wad of cotton wool placed on the wound and then bandaged firmly will help staunch the blood-flow until you can get to the vet. Please do not use a tourniquet.
* Adhesive and gauze bandages. If the wound is not serious, you may prefer to clean and bandage it yourself.
* Gauze swabs. Use these to clean wounds.
* Scissors. Use these to clip hair away from the wound, so you can clean and access it better.
* Antiseptic wash. Use this to keep the wound clean – but if you notice swelling, there may be infection and you should consult the vet.
* Forceps, or blunt-nosed tweezers. These can come in very handy to remove foreign objects, such as thorns or splinters.
* Antiseptic or antibiotic ointment, to treat wounds
* Eye drops, to flush out the eye. Get these from your vet and make sure you know how to administer them.
* Cleansing ear drops. Let your vet advise you on how to use these correctly.
* A clean blanket or towel. This can be used to restrain your pet, to keep him warm, or as a stretcher.
In cases such as the following, do not hesitate to call the vet:
* Serious bleeding – apply a pressure bandage and get to the vet as quickly as possible.
* Broken leg – carefully put your pet in the car and drive carefully to the vet. If you need to immobilise the injury, use a thick pad and bandage.
* Acute diarrhoea in puppies. This should be treated as soon as possible, as your puppy can dehydrate very quickly. In older dogs a trip to the vet is indicated if the diarrhoea is frequent, smells bad and has a "chocolate" or dark-red colour. This might indicate serious bleeding in the bowels and should be treated as an emergency.
