The essential first aid kit for dogs on trips and excursions

Now that summer is approaching and we are starting to plan outdoor excursions, we want to talk to you about the importance of always carrying a kit for your furry friend, i.e. a series of items with which you can assist your little one in the event of an accident.

Nothing needs to happen to him, but if he needs to be treated urgently, due to bites, poisoning, choking, cuts or even a traffic accident, it is very important to have the necessary elements at hand to carry out initial first aid assistance, in order to avoid greater problems, before arriving at the veterinary clinic.

What should I include in my first aid kit?

The first aid kit for dogs should contain:

• Sterile gauze, adhesive bandages and adhesive tape.
• Non-adhesive absorbent dressings.
• Cotton wool.
• Rectal thermometer.
• Physiological saline solution to clean the eyes if necessary.
• Analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Medicines for diarrhoea.
• Scissors to cut bandages
• Tweezers or a tick removal tool.
• Disposable gloves for handling wounds.
• Antiseptic to clean wounds.
• Heating blanket or towel to keep the dog warm in case of shock.
• List of emergency contacts, including the number of your veterinarian and nearby emergency veterinary clinics.

In addition to these basic items, if your dog has any allergies or specific medical conditions, be sure to include the necessary medications in your kit.

Additional Tips

It is important to always carry fresh water with you on excursions, as you will not always find fountains or rivers where your dog can drink. Keeping your dog well hydrated is essential to avoid fainting, dehydration and dizziness, especially on hot days and during physical activities.

Animal First Aid Training

In addition to having a first aid kit, Picart recommends that you take first aid courses for animals. These courses teach you how to:

• Check the animal’s vital signs.
• Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
• Identify and respond to signs of shock.
• Assist in case of choking.
• Clean and dress wounds properly.
• Treat bites and splint fractures.
• Act in case of gastric torsion.
• Control the animal’s temperature.

The time it takes before a vet can treat your furry companion is crucial, so having this knowledge can be vital to their wellbeing.

Bon voyage!