We travel a LOT and more often than not we take our dogs with us.  Whether it is just a weekend away or a canine competition of some sort we are always on the road.  We are either in our RV, or one or more of the dogs is in the car traveling to class, a Pet Therapy visit or just a trip downtown. Having a Pet First Aid Kit in both the car and the RV has saved us on more than one occasion.  

We have been lucky that it has never been worse than something stuck in a paw....but I'd rather be safe than sorry.

Here's 15 Things You should have in your Pet First Aid Kit:

1.  Self-Clinging Bandages - will stick to itself but not your pet's fur (no Band-Aids)

2.  Ice Pack to reduce swelling or pain

3.  Gauze rolls

4.  Tweezers

5.  Pet Thermometer - your pet's temperature shouldn't be above 103 or below 100).  Small tube of vaseline.

6. Antiseptic wipes, lotion or spray.  To clean wounds or thermometer.

7.  Hydrogen peroxide - to induce vomiting at the direction of a veterinarian or poison control; Cleaning wounds

8.  Milk of magnesia or activated charcoal to absorb poison

9.  Rounded tip Scissors - for cutting hair

10.  Cloth strips or rubber tubing for tourniquet

11. Eyedropper - to dispense liquids orally or help clean wounds

12.  Blanket (foil emergency blanket) for warmth and to help carry a sick or injured pet

13.  Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) - know your pet's dosage and record it in advance

14.  Glucose paste or corn syrup for diabetic pet or those with low blood sugar

15.  Non-latex disposable gloves

Other items to keep in your kit: Important phone numbers:  your vet, poison control and emergency vet contact.  

If traveling check on these for your destination in advance.

Make sure you have a leash.

Learn how to make a soft muzzle from  a cloth strip or soft leash!

While it seems like a lot....on more than one occasion, having my kit has helped.  The last time I used it I was at an outdoor agility class (at night of course!) with one of my dogs.  She got stung by a bee, the stinger was stuck in her leg and she appeared to be in pain.  I quickly called my vet (who is a 24 hour vet!), explained the situation and that I had Benadryl with me.  He talked me through how to get the stinger out (with my tweezers!),  I cleaned  the site off and gave her a quick dosage of Benadryl.  We went home safe and sound...with no trip to the vet and I knew she was okay and didn't have to wait until we go all the way home for me to try to get the stinger out and help her with the pain.

Having my kit in the car has helped with minor things that would have  cost me money to take my dog to the vet for something minor because I wasn't prepared or caused my dog to have to wait longer than necessary until I could get home and take care of her.

PS - It also works in a pinch for humans too!  

Do you keep a pet first aid kit in your car or RV?