If you look up lists of things to have in an emergency kit or first aid kit for pets, you’ll see a
long list.
And we certainly wouldn’t discourage anyone from obtaining
some of the items, if they have the budget to do so. The more you have, the more you’ll be prepared.
However, some of these things you either already have in your house or really don’t need at all (and some are downright ridiculous).
For some, it’s recommended only if you are traveling with your dog. And finally, for some of these the advice to use them is flat-out wrong and can make things worse.
Let’s take a look at what some suggest & why it’s not needed
(& to alleviate any possible guilt for not having all this):
5 inch hemostat
- Sometimes seen on lists as a tool to use, to clamp blood vessels to stem bleeding - If you know how to clamp a blood vessel, that’s great. If not (and really, who does other than vets, doctors & nurses?), the vet will do this if needed. Even attempting this without training could kill a dog, not help him.
Bandanna and/or nylon stocking
- This item is suggested by some to tie up a dog’s muzzle so that he doesn’t
bite
after being injured; some dogs do bite when hurt as it is canine instinct to be defensive when feeling vulnerable. However, this is rare and can impede the dog’s breathing, especially a brachycephalic breed like the Boxer. While we certainly don’t want anyone to get bit from a dog that’s acting out of instinct, do use this with caution and only if absolutely necessary.
Comb
- A
grooming
item in a first aid kit? 'Nuff said.
Cotton balls
- For applying antiseptic or topical medications; not bad to have but sterile gauze works better.
Credit card
- To remove stingers from bee stings, etc. It’d be hard to imagine that someone doesn’t have some sort of plastic card (bank card, license, etc.) and would need to put one in the kit.
Dish washing liquid
- Not only is there a 100% chance you already have this, it’s not recommend to flush wounds. Mixing water with betadine is best but if you don’t have any, just water is the next best thing.
Disposable safety razor
- Some suggest this for shaving fur from around a wound; this is something the vet will do, so no need for this.