make your own canine first aid kit

Ruffwear has a saying around the office, “Better to haul precautionary items with you, than to lug a 60 pound dog back down with you.”  We are speaking, of course, in regards to ensuring that all the appropriate gear—including a dog first aid kit—makes it on your gear list for any outdoor adventure.

While many companies offer a pre-assembled first aid kit, you can make your own just as easily.  Here are a few key items that every canine first aid kit should have:

• Pet First Aid Booklet (you can download a free version of our “Guide to Animal Emergencies” at: (http://www.ruffwear.com/dog_adventures/Trail-Adventures-with-Your-Dog)
• List of important numbers such as your veterinarian and Poison Control
• (2) 3” x 3” gauze pads
• (1) 5″ x 9″ trauma pad
• (1) 4″ x 4.1 yd. stretch gauze
 (can also be used as a muzzle to prevent biting during treatment)
• (1) 2″ x 5 yd. co-flex bandage
• (1) pair latex gloves
• (1) metal scissors
• (
1) set of forceps
 or tweezers
• (4) PVP iodine swabs
• (1) 20 ml bottle eye-skin wash
• (2) insect swabs
• (12) 1 g. hydro cortisone cream
• (
4) 1 g. antibiotic cream
• (5) cotton swabs
• (2) antiseptic towelettes
• (1) powdered styptic
• (
2) green soap towelettes
• (1) handiwipe
• (1) 2″ x 5 yd. adhesive tape
• (1) 6″ x 9″ resealable bag
• (
1) rubber band

Other helpful items:

• (1) Magnifying glass
• (1) thermometer
• (1) oral syringe
• (1 – 2 TBSP) 3% hydrogen peroxide, toxiban, or vet-approved charcoal—use to induce vomiting ONLY under vet’s guidance
• (1mg / pound) Diphenhydramine Antihistamine (Benadryl)—use for allergic reactions ONLY under vet’s guidance

Finally, remember that contents of your first aid kit do have an expiration date.  Be sure to check and replace the contents of your kit often to ensure it’s ready if ever needed.