In light of the impending bad weather we are anticipating with Hurricane Matthew here, I felt it was only appropriate to give you all some good general information that anyone could use in the event of a natural disaster, as well as give you an idea of what to put together for your dog’s first aid kit this week. Being well prepared can mean the difference between life and death in certain situations, so while you are getting things ready at home for all the humans, make sure you have the essential needed items for your pet as well.
There are a few things you will want to do first and foremost:
- Have your pet’s emergency info saved in your smartphone:
- Your Vet’s Phone #
- Nearest Emergency Vet’s phone #
- Take a picture of your dog’s current vaccination records and save to your phone
- Your pet’s microchip company and ID#
- Make sure your dog is wearing any identifying ID tags or information before the storm hits!
Next, it is very important that you design your pet’s very own first aid kit. You never know when you might need to administer life saving treatment when a natural disaster hits. You might be unable to get to the vet immediately due to the severity of the weather. Road closures, power lines down, flooding and other problems could impede getting to the veterinarian, so your first aid kit is all you will have.
Here is a great list of items to compile for your kit. Pick up an old backpack, diaper bag or duffle bag so you can keep everything together.
**Any medication your dog might require on a regular basis.
• Commercial muzzle or strip of fabric 24-36” long (to prevent biting in case of pain
during treatment ONLY when there is no risk of throat/neck/breathing/vomiting injury)
• Spare leash – slip lead style is good
• Hydrogen Peroxide 3% USP (to induce vomiting under vet’s guidance only) This
product expires so check dates & replace as needed. If opened, replace in one month
• Toxiban or other vet-approved activated charcoal (for use in poisoning emergencies
under vet’s guidance only)
• Oral Syringe
• Tweezers or needle nose pliers
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Use under vet’s guidance only- typical dose is 1mg per
lb of body weight. Never use combo formulations or those containing xylitol!
• Sterile saline eye & wound wash – replace annually or after 30 days if opened
• Epsom salts (to make larger batch of saline solution to rinse wounds – 2 t. per qt.)
• Pediatric digital rectal thermometer and water-based lubricant
• Pop-top can of low/no-salt, water-packed sardines/salmon/tuna (dilute juice to make
flavored water to hydrate pet, or mix with hydrogen peroxide when vomiting is
indicated by vet)
• Wound care items:
Hand sanitizer or non-latex disposable gloves
Antiseptic (povidone-iodine) solution, such as Betadine
Co-flex cohesive bandage roll (also known as Vet Wrap)
Antibiotic ointment such as Polysporin
Conforming gauze roll
4 x 4 gauze pads/ non-stick bandages
Non-scented sanitary pad or cotton washcloths (for heavily bleeding wounds)
Clean cotton sock/t-shirt (for quick-wrapping wounds)
First aid adhesive tape
Grooming clippers
• Blunt scissors
• Duct tape
• Styptic powder (Kwik Stop) for bleeding toenails
• Keep a blanket/large towel, fresh water, treats and dish in your car
Additional items for expanded or professional kits:
• Bite-proof gloves
• Karo syrup or glucose paste (for blood sugar emergencies)
• Cold packs
• Dawn dishwashing liquid
• Heavy scissors
Also, here is a list of Additional resources that might aid you as you prepare for the storm.
Red Cross
http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-family/pets
and
http://www.redcross.org/images/MEDIA_CustomProductCatalog/
m3640126_PetSafety.pdf
Humane Society
http://www.humanesociety.org/issues/animal_rescue/tips/pets-disaster.html
ASPCA
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/disaster-preparedness
***A big thank you to Melanie Monteiro of TheSafeDog.com for compiling some of this wonderful information. Be safe out there this week!!***