Tip 233

Do you have a pet first aid kit in your home? You can buy them, or put one together yourself. If you travel or regularly goes places with your dog, be sure to have one in your car too.

Here is a checklist:

Antibiotic ointment for minor cuts or scrapes.
Anti-fungal spray for control of ringworm, itching or other fungus problems.
Anti-itch spray for relief of itching, dermatitis and abrasions.
Artificial tear gel.
Bandages — Purchase an assortment of gauze and stretch bandages, and large and small gauze pads to cover wounds.
Bitter Apple Spray: Its bitter taste keeps your dog from licking her wounds.
Cotton balls and swabs for applying just about everything.
Ear wipes for wax and ear discharges.
Eye wipes to clean eye discharge.
First aid lotion.
Flea & tick shampoo for flea control.
Grease-cutting dishwashing detergent (mild) for cleaning wounds.
Hydrogen peroxide solution (3%): This is the most versatile item in your pet first aid kit. If you have one only thing available for pet emergencies make it hydrogen peroxide: It can be used to clean wounds and ears, and to induce vomiting. Check with your veterinarian for specifics on these procedures.
Iodine for wounds.
Latex gloves for your own protection.
Milk of magnesia — as an acid neutralizer.
Saline solution — to flush eyes.
Sanitary wipes for cleaning wounds and yourself.
Sterile eye ointment.
Styptic powder to stop bleeding on nail tips.
Large Syringe (no needle) for flushing wounds or administering medicine.
Small nail scissors.
Tick release ointment.
Tweezers.