April is Pet First Aid Month, and now is a great time for seniors to make sure they are ready to take care of their furry friend if something happens. Emergency vets are always available for pets that have a serious illness or accident. But, seniors may have a hard time getting their beloved pet to the vet in an emergency.
Seniors who have senior home care can depend on their senior home care provider to help get their pet emergency care or to administer any first aid that a pet might need. Every pet owner, but especially senior pet owners, should have a pet first aid kit at home.
Emergency Contact Information
Every pet first aid kit should have a laminated card or a sheet or paper with important phone numbers on it. Those numbers should include the pet’s usual veterinarian, the nearest emergency veterinary clinic, and a poison control hotline. Seniors also may want to put a family member’s phone number on there in case they need to call a family member for help.
Self-Adhering Bandages
This type of bandage is useful for wrapping wounds or creating temporary splints. Make sure it's safe for pets and doesn't stick to fur. These bandages can be purchased in any pet or farm store. They come in different widths, lengths, colors, and other options. Keep a few different sizes on hand. They are fantastic for stopping bleeding if a pet gets a cut or bite.
Gauze Pads and Roll
Use gauze pads to clean wounds and control bleeding. A gauze roll can also be used as a makeshift muzzle on a pet that is scared or in pain and may bite because they are upset or confused.
Adhesive Tape
Use medical adhesive tape to secure bandages or gauze pads in place.
Scissors
Have a pair of blunt-tipped scissors to cut bandages or fur away from a wound if necessary. Be cautious when using scissors around pets.
Tweezers
Tweezers can be helpful for removing splinters, ticks, or other foreign objects from your pet's skin. Make sure they have a fine tip and are suitable for pet use.
Sterile Saline Solution
Use saline solution to flush out wounds or clean debris from your pet's eyes.
Antiseptic Wipes or Solution
Use antiseptic wipes or solution to clean wounds and help prevent infection. Antiseptic wipes are a much easier way to apply topical antiseptic to pets than pouring liquid on a wound or trying to apply cream to a wound. Look specifically for pet antiseptic or antibacterial wipes.
It’s also a good idea to have plain baby wipes in your pet first aid too. They can be used to wipe away blood, dirt, and debris. They are usually gentle enough to be used to wipe a pet’s ears and eyes too.
Hydrogen Peroxide (3%)
Use hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting in case your pet ingests something toxic. However, consult with a veterinarian or poison control center before administering.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal can help absorb toxins if your pet ingests something poisonous. Consult with a veterinarian or poison control center before administering.
Disposable Gloves
Gloves are necessary to protect humans from bodily fluids or potentially harmful substances when providing first aid to the pet. Include several pairs in the first aid kit.
Rectal Thermometer
Have a rectal thermometer to monitor your pet's temperature in case of illness or heatstroke.
Blanket or Towel
Use a blanket or towel to keep your pet warm and comfortable in case of shock or injury. Towels are the best, but blankets can work too. Include some strips of a cut up old towel that can be used to restrain the pet or secure a splint.
