First aid kit for pets: a must-have for a responsible owner

Every responsible pet owner should have a first aid kit. No one knows what might happen to our curious and sometimes mischievous friends at any given moment. That’s why it’s crucial to have essential medications and emergency supplies readily available.

The danger of using human medications for dogs and cats

Keep in mind that medications intended for humans should not be used for animals. They are particularly dangerous for dogs. These include anti-inflammatory drugs such as analgin, aspirin, ibuprofen, Nurofen, and paracetamol; antidepressants and sleeping aids like Prozac, Lexapro, Relanium, and Sibazon; blood pressure stabilizers like Tenormin and Toprol; and pain relievers such as paracetamol and Panadol, which are especially toxic to dogs and cats. Loperamide, commonly used to treat diarrhea in humans, is also forbidden for pets. Instead, Enterosgel is a safer alternative.

Human medications often cause anemia, internal and intestinal bleeding, liver or kidney failure in pets. Eye drops can lead to burns and blindness, while antidepressants may trigger mental disorders, coordination problems, and headaches. In many cases, this results in the animal’s death.

Some of these medications may not be harmful if the dosage is precisely calculated, but only under a veterinarian’s supervision, never on your own discretion.

Essential medications in a pet’s first aid kit

Knowing what medications should be in your pet’s first aid kit is just as important as understanding which ones should never be used. Prepare in advance because you never know what might happen to your dog, cat, or other pet. Being ready for any emergency is the responsibility of a caring owner.

Pet first aid kit checklist:

  • Bandages, cotton, gauze, adhesive tape, wipes, hemostatic sponge (for stopping localized bleeding);
  • Antiseptic solutions (3% hydrogen peroxide), ointments, and powders to disinfect wounds and stop bleeding;
  • Anti-parasitic medications (since parasites and fleas are common problems for pets, always have remedies on hand);
  • Ear and eye drops;
  • Anti-allergic medications (if your pet has allergies);
  • Enterosorbents (Enterosgel, activated charcoal);
  • Thermometer;
  • Rubber gloves (for your protection);
  • Syringes (2 ml, 5 ml, 10 ml for small animals, 20 ml for large dog breeds);
  • Pipette;
  • Enema;
  • Tick removal tweezers, nail scissors.

Additional emergency supplies

In emergencies, you may need tools for immobilizing and transporting your pet, as severe injuries or illnesses can render them unable to move. A pet carrier will be useful, along with a muzzle – when a pet is in shock or in severe pain, they may bite, even their owner. A pet diaper should also be in your first aid kit to wrap around the animal in case of injuries or shock. If your pet has a fracture, a splint or rigid support will be helpful. A tourniquet is essential for stopping severe bleeding. Make sure all these items are available in your “emergency first aid kit” in advance.

Even if you are unsure how to use these supplies properly, having them on hand can save valuable time for a veterinarian or another person who can assist your pet, as you won’t need to waste time searching for necessary tools during an emergency.

Medication usage guidelines

Every medication, whether for humans or animals, is meant to help and heal, but if used incorrectly, it can become harmful. That’s why consulting a veterinarian should always be the first step. The vet will determine the most suitable treatment, including dosage, intervals, and duration, based on your pet’s specific needs.

Be mindful of how certain medications should be administered. Some pills must not be given with food or mixed with water, such as levothyroxine, digoxin, ketoconazole, and certain antibiotics. To avoid reducing their effectiveness, always read the instructions carefully and use specialized solutions rather than plain water to make ingestion easier. Administer injections only as directed by a veterinarian, ensure the syringe is sterile, and disinfect the injection site. Before using eye drops, clean the area and rinse the eyes with saline solution. When applying topical treatments (ointments, sprays), prevent your pet from licking them off by using a protective collar.

When treating your pet, consider their size, weight, age, and overall health condition. For example, parasite control medications must be dosed according to your pet’s age and weight—overdosing can cause poisoning or even be fatal. Antibiotics should be adjusted for young animals and those with chronic illnesses. Pain relievers can negatively impact the liver and kidneys, especially in older pets. The same applies to anesthesia, as weight and physical condition influence its effectiveness.

Follow the instructions and veterinarian recommendations carefully—do not self-medicate. Maintain proper dosing intervals and complete the full treatment course, even if your pet seems to have recovered.

Always check the expiration date of medications and store them in appropriate conditions to prevent spoilage. Usually, this means keeping them in a dark, cool place, such as a refrigerator.

Whatever happens to your pet, we recommend staying calm and seeking professional help in time—whether from a groomer or a veterinarian. At V.O.G DOG SALON, we always strive to help your beloved pets feel as happy as possible. We are always happy to assist you with anything you need. Wishing good health to your furry friends and to you!